By Arindam Ganguly
Bhubaneswar: “We need to prioritize our planet today to ensure future generations can enjoy a healthy world,” said Tathagata Satpathy, Editor of Dharitri and Orissa POST, during a recent gathering for the fifth Dharitri Youth Conclave. Over 100 climate advocates from Odisha attended the Green Heroes Summit at the Press Club of Odisha.
He noted a positive trend: “More environmental groups and young people are joining the conversation this year. It reflects a growing awareness about climate issues.” However, he expressed concern about many young people being disconnected from nature. “When I chat with them, they can list car brands or social media influencers but struggle to name even a few birds or trees. That’s a sign we’re losing touch with the natural world,” he said.
Tathagata highlighted the serious harm caused by chemicals in farming. “We’ve wiped out about 40% of flying insect species due to pesticides. This is alarming,” he cautioned. He also emphasized that environmental work isn’t just volunteerism; it can provide real jobs and careers.
He pointed to pollution, particularly in cities like New Delhi, where air quality is a significant concern. “Countries like Germany and France are making strides, but we need to catch up,” he acknowledged.
Adyasha Satpathy, Chief Executive of Dharitri and Orissa POST, called for collaboration rather than competition. “Our focus should be on working together to empower the next generation. By sharing knowledge and supporting one another, we can build a better future,” she said.
During the event, winners of last year’s Climate Grant–Odisha were recognized. These included the Jungle Lore Foundation and Anchalika Vikash Parishad, along with individual awardees Pupun Sahoo and Trilochan Sahoo, who discussed how the grant boosted their environmental efforts.
Environmentalist Soumya Ranjan Biswal, also a Climate Grant recipient, urged for unity in grassroots activism. “While we visit various communities, we meet inspiring individuals dedicated to protecting the environment. We need to value each other’s efforts and continue working together,” he said.
Former PCCF Debabrata Swain praised the summit for inspiring citizens committed to environmental causes. “It’s encouraging to see people coming together to take action,” he remarked, highlighting the urgent need to protect Odisha’s coastline from erosion and the impacts of climate change. “Those who harm the environment affect us all,” he added.
Speakers like Meena Das Mohapatra and Omm Priyadarshi encouraged the youth to take action. Mohapatra reminded them, “Your voices matter, and your actions can inspire change.”
The “Green Heroes” represented various climate advocacy groups across Odisha, focusing on themes like Climate & Innovation, Coastal Conservation, and Pollution.
The summit also featured the first Dharitri Climate Film Fest, showcasing films about climate change. “Suravi,” created by Itishree Panda, won the top prize, while “O2 Collapse” and “Tale of Tree” earned second and third place, respectively. Panda’s film uses music to represent how soil erosion causes migration in Kendrapara.
Chief Guest Akash Das Nayak stressed the urgency of acting on climate change, warning that failure to act now could lead to serious consequences, such as needing to buy clean air.
Overall, the event showcased a community eager to unite for a healthier planet. As more people engage in these discussions and take action, we can forge a path toward a sustainable future.
Source link
Climate Change,Dharitri Youth Conclave,Dharitri Youth Conclave 2025,Environment,Green Heroes Summit,Tathagata Satpathy
