Uttar Pradesh Launches ‘Mahakumbh Declaration’ to Tackle Climate Change

On the big stage of Mahakumbh 2025, religion and climate action came together as the Uttar Pradesh government launched the Mahakumbh Declaration on Climate Change. With religious figures, policymakers, and environmentalists on board, the movement is set to make temples, shrines, and other religious places models of sustainability. As the climate crisis deepens, the declaration emphasises solar power, rainwater harvesting, and plastic-free pilgrimages, making faith-based communities an active part of India’s green revolution.

Faith Leaders Unite for Environmental Action

During the inaugural ‘Faith of Kumbh and Climate Change’ conclave at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasised the critical role of spiritual leaders in addressing climate change. He highlighted the alarming rise in temperatures and the drying up of rivers due to unchecked greenhouse gas emissions. “Temperatures are rising due to the continuous release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which will have catastrophic consequences in the coming years. It’s high time we act collectively and individually and take responsibility,” Adityanath stated.

The Chief Minister compared river systems to the body’s blood vessels, underscoring the necessity of preserving natural watercourses. He warned that neglecting these vital resources could lead to their demise, adversely affecting the environment and human health.

‘Mahakumbh Declaration’: A Blueprint for Green Shrines

The ‘Mahakumbh Declaration on Climate Change‘ outlines a comprehensive plan to make religious centres across Uttar Pradesh environmentally friendly. Key initiatives include:

• Solar Energy Adoption: Installing solar panels to harness renewable energy.
• Rainwater Harvesting: Implementing systems to collect and utilise rainwater.
• Waste Management: Promoting recycling and banning single-use plastics.
• Green Landscaping: Creating green zones around sacred spaces to enhance biodiversity.

The state government has committed to funding faith-based organisations so that they can take the lead in environmental education and sustainable living. The project will seek to lower the carbon footprint of religious activities by having eco-friendly pilgrimages and green festivals.

A Unified Effort Towards Environmental Preservation

The conclave witnessed active participation from prominent spiritual figures, including Swami Mukundananda, founder of the Jagadguru Kripalu Yog Trust, and Swami Chidanand Saraswati, President of Parmarth Niketan. They echoed the sentiment that religious teachings inherently advocate for environmental stewardship. Swami Mukundananda remarked, “Our Upanishads teach us that the entire world is a creation of the Almighty. We should use it, not exploit it.”

Chandra Bhushan, CEO of iFOREST, emphasised the influential role of faith leaders in mobilising communities. He noted that while scientists and policymakers provide data and frameworks, spiritual leaders possess the unique ability to connect with people on a cultural and emotional level, making them pivotal in driving climate action.

The Mahakumbh Declaration signifies a symbiotic action method against environmental issues, uniting religious guidance with governmental assistance. By transforming religious sites into symbols of sustainability, Uttar Pradesh hopes to encourage broader societal transformation and illustrate how faith and ecological awareness can be combined to preserve the planet for generations to come.

References:
https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/climate-change-drying-up-rivers-need-to-act-now-up-cm-at-maha-kumbh-125021600327_1.html

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/up-govt-released-mahakumbh-declaration-on-climate-change-pledging-to-turn-religious-centres-and-shrines-across-the-state-green/articleshow/118305675.cms#:~:text=The%20steps%20to%20be%20taken,green%20zones%20around%20sacred%20spaces.

https://ddnews.gov.in/en/river-systems-similar-to-blood-vessels-of-our-body-says-up-cm-at-faith-of-kumbh-conclave/#:~:text=%E2%80%9COur%20Upanishads%20teach%20us%20that,give%20back%20to%20the%20environment.

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