Bihar is the first state in the country to implement a green budget: Bandana Preyashi
UNICEF with CIMP calls upon youth for Climate Action
“Future Guardians of Bihar: Youth Climate Conclave 2024” organized to spark Climate Action by youth
Patna : The ‘Future Guardians of Bihar: Youth Climate Conclave’ jointly organized by CIMP’s Centre for Climate Resilience, Disaster Risk Reduction, and Water Sanitation & Hygiene (WASH) Research and Education in collaboration UNICEF Bihar was a landmark event, uniting young leaders, government officials, development partners, and civil society organizations in a collective effort to tackle climate change in the state. With participation of over 500 youth and adolescents from different schools and colleges including social media influencers, the conclave aimed to empower youth to address the pressing challenges of climate change and environmental sustainability in the state.
In her keynote address, Bandana Preyashi, Secretary, Department of Environment Forest & Climate Change, GoB said that climate change impacts extend beyond weather and water encompassing health crises, biodiversity loss, and economic disruptions. Climate action is not just policy; it’s a movement where the role of youth to combat it, is pivotal. Individual behavioural changes – from energy conservation to reducing plastic will contribute to mitigation efforts. She added that Bihar is the first state in the country to implement a green budget. The department planted 4 crore samplings in the previous financial year and aims to plant 4.5 crore saplings this year. Urban greenery is being enhanced through ‘Nagar van’ parks, or green parks, which will act as urban lungs. She also stated that the department wishes to host an international youth conclave in collaboration with UNICEF for South Asian countries. She called upon everyone to work towards a future where climate and economy thrive together, shaping a sustainable tomorrow for Bihar and beyond.
Addressing the conclave, Margaret Gwada, Chief of Field Office, UNICEF Bihar, said that this year UNICEF is celebrating its 75 years in India. UNICEF Children’s Climate Risk Index (CCRI) ranks India at 26 among 163 countries, underscoring the grave exposure of its children to severe climate and environmental conditions. This implies that children in India including Bihar are among the most ‘at-risk’ to the impacts of climate change, threatening their health, education, and protection and increasing their vulnerability. UNICEF not only advocates for increased financing and implementation of adaptation and resilience measures, but it also strives towards empowering children and youth as agents of change, ensuring their active participation in environmental policy decision-making. “This youth conclave has been organized to optimize and leverage on the youth creativity, to foster a sense of ownership and accountability among them, understand their take on climate change and adapt our strategies based on their needs and priorities,” she added.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Rana Singh, Director, CIMP said that from the diversity of thought to the stark realities of man-made and natural disasters contributing to global warming, we confront the negative implications of climate change daily. Issues like water scarcity and chemical contamination underscore the perilous path ahead, reminding us that the decision to transform a developing nation into a developed one rests on the youth’s shoulders. The future of tomorrow depends on the actions we take today to avert the spectre of global warming.
In her technical presentation, Nirma Bora, CCES Consultant at UNICEF ICO, discussed the crucial role of youth in climate action. This was followed by showcasing of best practices on the ground, with youth-led initiatives from Odisha, Maharashtra, and Karnataka demonstrating effective strategies for water conservation and green skills development. In an engaging session on Social Media Campaigning on Climate Change, the participants were informed about the tools and techniques of digital advocacy and the significant role of social media to fight climate change.
Kartik Verma, UNICEF Youth Advocate for Climate Change shared insights of his climate advocacy activities, highlighting the power of youth engagement in climate change. He said, ‘to mitigate the pervasive impact of climate change, mere words are not enough. The youth must act now’. It is up to the youth, to seize this moment, make a difference, and create a sustainable future, he added.
The event successfully marked the beginning of a series of initiatives aimed at empowering young people to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable practices. The “Future Guardians of Bihar: Youth Climate Conclave” set a powerful precedent for youth-led climate action. With the collective commitment of youth, government, and civil society, Bihar is poised to make significant strides in combating climate change and ensuring a resilient future for its communities. The energy and enthusiasm of the participants offers a beacon of hope for a more sustainable future.
The event concluded with a call to action, urging participants to become active agents of climate change and environmental sustainability. Kumod Kumar, Chief Administrative Officer, CIMP delivered the vote of thanks. Besides the officials of UNICEF, PHED and Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Mission, NSS volunteers, NYKS and CSO representatives were present during the event.