Through Govardhan Puja, Shri Krishna gave the message of conservation of environment and biodiversity.

Udaipur, 2 November (HS). The festival of Govardhan Puja is being celebrated all over the country. In a discussion organized on this occasion, environmentalist Dr. Anil Mehta said that in the Dwapar era, the message of worshiping Govardhan Mountain was given to the people of Brij by Lord Shri Krishna for happiness, prosperity, and protection from natural disasters, which is relevant even today.

He said that this message of Shri Krishna highlights the need for conservation of mountains, trees, and animals. Explaining the importance of environment and biodiversity conservation, he said that God had connected people with these natural resources.

Dr. Mehta said that this day of Govardhan Puja symbolizes the resolve to conserve mountains and hills. On this day we should remember that mountains are very important from the point of view of hydrology, ecology, and biodiversity and by saving them we can protect ourselves. In the time of current climate crisis, there is a need to adopt the message of mountain conservation of Shri Krishna and put it into practice.

Aravalli Green Wall Project: A Pledge to Preserve

The world's oldest mountain range, the Aravalli, is currently facing a serious crisis. Its water flow systems and biodiversity are threatened by urbanization, hotels, resorts, and other construction, which could push the region toward floods and desertification. To stop this crisis, the Central Government has started the Aravali Green Wall Project. The 1,400 km long and 5 km wide green belt from Porbandar to Panipat is a key part of the plan, which aims to halt the expansion of the Western Desert and restore the biodiversity of the Aravalis.

The Supreme Court has also given instructions to ban mining in Aravalli. However, Aravali cannot be saved only by green wall project or stopping mining. Unless the cutting of Aravali for urbanization and commercial construction is stopped, its degradation will continue.

This day of Govardhan Puja alerts us to be aware of the safety and conservation of our environment. This festival gives us the message of coexistence with nature, and makes us aware of our responsibility towards nature for the safety of ourselves and our future generations.