Odisha Governor Urges Youth to Lead Climate Action
Bhubaneswar: Odisha Governor Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati has called upon the youth to take the lead in combating climate change, stressing that sustainable development must balance economic growth with environmental protection.
Speaking at the Earth Again Conference 2026 hosted by Sambad Group at Utkal University, the Governor highlighted the urgent need for collective responsibility across government, industry, academia, media, and citizens.
He pointed to Odisha’s rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and extreme weather events as clear indicators of climate stress, warning of impacts on agriculture, water resources, health, and livelihoods.
Citing Lok Bhavan’s 635‑kW solar plant and the adoption of electric vehicles in his convoy, Dr Kambhampati urged universities to install solar panels, provide free EV charging, and pursue Green Certification.
He also advocated year‑round tree plantation drives under the “one person, one tree” initiative.
The Governor emphasised that renewable energy adoption strengthens energy security, reduces crude oil imports, and saves foreign exchange, with government subsidies available to support clean energy transitions.
The event also honoured environmentalist Sunita Narain, with dignitaries including Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, Sambad Group CMD Soumya Ranjan Patnaik, VC Chandi Prasad Nanda, and Editor Tanaya Patnaik in attendance.
