Sundargarh, 12th September 2026: In a significant effort towards promoting environmental conservation and increasing green cover, a district-level environmental awareness campaign was organised at the premises of Shree Lingeswar Mahadev Temple, Tarakaspur, with the participation of local communities, students and self-help groups.
The campaign focused on promoting a green and plastic-free society, encouraging plantation, reducing the use of single-use plastic and creating greater environmental awareness among the community. More than 1,000 people, including students and members of self-help groups, participated in the programme.
The programme was attended by Shri Kunal Motiram Chavan; District Magistrate, Jharsuguda; Shri Sabyasachi Panda, Deputy District Magistrate; Shri Hiranya Kumar Naik, Regional Officer, State Pollution Control Board; Shri Prahlad Nayak, District Wildlife Conservator and Chairman, Plantation Monitoring Committee; Smt. Anusuya Ekka, Environmental Scientist, State Pollution Control Board, Jharsuguda Zone; senior officials of the Forest Department; and Shri Faiz Taiyab, Head of Project, NTPC Darlipali, among others.
As part of the campaign, saplings were planted at the temple premises and free saplings of different varieties were distributed among the public and students. To reinforce the message on plastic reduction, straw-made bags were distributed, and a completely plastic-free food stall was operated by self-help groups. A cultural programme based on environmental awareness was also presented by the participants.
A key highlight of the programme was the visit to the Miyawaki system of plantation at Baghiaberna, where the District Magistrate and other dignitaries reviewed the plantation work and progress of the green initiative. The dignitaries also participated in the plantation drive by planting saplings at the site.
As part of its Sustainable Development Project, NTPC Darlipali has undertaken plantation of 40,000 saplings under the Miyawaki system through DFO, Jharsuguda, including 16,000 saplings at Loisingh and 12,000 saplings at Balangibahal during FY 2025–26. The initiative is aimed at reclaiming vacant land, increasing green cover and promoting ecological balance in the region. A diverse range of locally suitable medicinal and fruit-bearing species has been selected for the plantation.
The initiative by NTPC Darlipali was appreciated and applauded by the dignitaries, who acknowledged the organisation’s efforts towards environmental conservation and creation of greener spaces in the district.
Shri Faiz Taiyab, Head of Project, NTPC Darlipali, has been actively associated with the initiative, reflecting NTPC Darlipali’s commitment to supporting collaborative environmental efforts in the surrounding communities. The initiative further strengthens the organisation’s focus on sustainable development, environmental protection and community participation.
