Environmental Advocate Jadav Payeng Urges Youth to Embrace Tree Plantation

Jadav Payeng's Call to Action at Flower Festival

Jorhat, Jan 3: Renowned environmentalist and Padma Shri awardee Jadav Payeng emphasized the importance of viewing tree and flower planting as a duty rather than an option. He cautioned that neglecting nature could lead to dire climate repercussions in the future.

Speaking at the two-day Flower Festival hosted by the Jorhat Flower Society at Joya Bhavan, Payeng highlighted the necessity of caring for the environment instead of exploiting it.

“It is my responsibility to educate the younger generation about planting saplings. Who knows what the temperature will be in 2026? If we cultivate a love for nature, many issues will resolve themselves,” he stated.

He urged a reevaluation of traditional practices at such gatherings, suggesting that flowers should not be cut for decoration.

“Flowers should remain intact and not be cut for display. Instead, we should bring saplings and teach students how to plant them. When they engage in planting saplings themselves, they will gain a deeper understanding,” he remarked.

Reaffirming his lifelong dedication to environmental preservation, Payeng expressed his intent to continue his mission in the years ahead.

“I am dedicated to planting trees. Wherever I am invited, I will go. The world is one family, and I must plant trees wherever I travel. Educating the youth is my obligation,” he added.

He stressed that planting efforts should transcend mere symbolism.

“It is insufficient to plant trees; they require nurturing, care, and understanding. It is my duty to impart this knowledge globally. If eight billion people begin to cherish nature, all problems will vanish,” he concluded.

This event took place amid recent reports of arson targeting a section of Mulai Kathoni 2.0, a forest regeneration project led by Payeng’s daughter, Munmuni Payeng, along the riverine belt of Majuli.

Linking environmental destruction to rising climate challenges, the “Forest Man of India” warned of unusual water levels and extreme heat.

“Deforestation has harmed our planet, resulting in the melting of ice caps and glaciers in Antarctica, leading to rising sea levels. Many coastal nations could face submersion,” he cautioned.

Referencing scientific predictions, Payeng noted that experts from various countries have warned of an impending water crisis in the Northeast.

“A French scientist has indicated a significant water crisis by 2028. We are already being warned that temperatures could reach 52 degrees Celsius,” he concluded.