Maha Kumbh’s Green Vision: A Model for Eco-Friendly Mega Events

Maha Kumbh 2025, the largest gathering of humanity on the planet, is not just a spiritual phenomenon but also a model of environmental responsibility. With an estimated 40 crore pilgrims expected to congregate in Prayagraj, the event is setting a new standard for eco-friendly mega-events through innovative measures under the National Clean Ganga Mission.Purity of the Ganga: A PriorityThe National Clean Ganga Mission has placed the purity of the Ganga river at the forefront, addressing concerns about water quality as millions immerse themselves in the sacred waters daily. Efforts extend beyond the river to encompass sustainable waste management and the creation of plastic-free zones, spreading awareness about environmental responsibility among the masses.Plastic-Free Zones: The ‘One Plate, One Bag’ CampaignIn a significant step towards a plastic-free Maha Kumbh, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has launched the ‘One Plate, One Bag’ campaign. According to Murar Tripathi, an RSS official, over 70,000 cloth and carry bags have already been distributed at six centers. Additionally, the organization has collected two million steel plates and glasses from across the country to replace disposable plastic and thermocol utensils at community kitchens and food outlets within the mela area.Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also urged devotees to embrace eco-friendly practices and give up single-use plastics during the pilgrimage.The National Clean Ganga Mission has allocated ₹152.37 crore for the implementation of extensive cleanliness measures during Maha Kumbh 2025. The initiatives span both traditional and modern approaches, ensuring a sustainable and hygienic environment for devotees.To manage waste effectively, 20,000 trash bins have been placed strategically throughout the event area, facilitating waste segregation at the source. Additionally, 37.75 lakh liner bags have been provided to streamline collection and disposal.As part of the cleanliness drive, the Ministry of Culture recently launched the Swachhata Rath Yatra in Prayagraj. This initiative mobilizes government agencies, public representatives, and local citizens to contribute to a clean and eco-friendly Maha Kumbh.Green Mahakumbh: A Platform for Environmental DiscourseOn January 31, Prayagraj will host the ‘Green Mahakumbh,’ organized by Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas. Over 1,000 environmentalists will gather to discuss pressing issues related to nature, the environment, water, and cleanliness. This national-level forum aims to explore ways to balance the five elements of nature while addressing modern environmental challenges.Experts will share insights to raise awareness among pilgrims about sustainable practices. Discussions will also highlight campaigns promoting environmental protection and cleanliness at Maha Kumbh, setting the stage for a broader cultural shift toward eco-consciousness.Maha Kumbh 2025 reflects India’s dedication to environmental sustainability. By integrating eco-friendly practices into this historic event, authorities aim to inspire millions of devotees to adopt cleaner and greener lifestyles. As pilgrims take their sacred dips in the Ganga, they also partake in a larger mission to preserve and protect the planet for generations to come.

How One Village is Reducing Man-Animal Conflict Through Eco-Friendly Practices

Dhodrokusum village, located near the Debrigarh wildlife sanctuary, is setting an inspiring example by becoming the first “green village” in the sanctuary. The village, consisting of 48 households, is taking small steps towards reducing its dependency on the forest and adopting eco-friendly practices to reduce man-animal conflicts in the region. The Hirakud wildlife division is playing a crucial role in this initiative by bringing about behavioral changes among the villagers. To prevent open defecation, toilets have been constructed in all households, and earthen reusable dustbins have been provided to prevent the haphazard dumping of garbage in the forest or Hirakud wetland. Additionally, solar streetlights have been installed to light up the village after sunset to prevent animals from entering the village at night. All households have been provided with fuel-efficient chullahs, and those who can afford LPG have been provided with gas connections to reduce the use of firewood and prevent large-scale wood collection from the Debrigarh sanctuary. The women of the village have been trained to use these fuel-efficient chullahs effectively. The Hirakud wildlife division believes that the green village will reduce pressure on wildlife habitats and promote eco-friendly practices among neighbouring villages. The adoption of these practices will create a conducive space for animals such as Sambar, Indian Gaur, deer, and peacocks that are seen grazing in the periphery of Dhodrokusum. During the celebration of Utkal Dibas, the residents of Dhodrokusum village made a commitment to serve as a model for wildlife conservation. In the future, women's self-help groups (SHGs) and the village eco-development committee will be responsible for maintaining the village under the supervision of the Hirakud wildlife division. Overall, Dhodrokusum village’s efforts towards eco-friendly practices are commendable and inspiring, and hopefully, it will pave the way for more such initiatives in the future.