Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized the urgent need for environmental conservation at the Faith of Kumbh and Climate Change conclave, stating that river systems are akin to the blood vessels of the human body. Addressing faith leaders, scientists, and environmentalists, he expressed deep concern over the deteriorating health of rivers due to pollution, over-extraction, and climate change. He warned that just as a body cannot survive if its blood vessels are blocked or toxic, rivers too will perish if siltation and pollution remain unchecked. The event, held during the Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, witnessed discussions on faith-driven climate action and sustainable environmental practices.
With over 520 million devotees already having taken a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam, the Mahakumbh has set a historic record as the world’s largest human congregation for a religious event. In preparation for the event, the state government has undertaken significant efforts to enhance the ecological health of the sacred confluence, including channelization and dredging of the riverbank using mechanical methods. Officials highlighted that the unification of the three streams of the Ganges has improved the flow at the Sangam, reinforcing its status as not just a river, but a lifeline for millions, a cultural and spiritual symbol, and a vital ecological system.
The conclave, organized by the Uttar Pradesh Directorate of Environment and supported by the environment research organization International Forum for Environment, Sustainability & Technology, brought together over 1,000 participants, including 30 speakers from religious institutions, government bodies, civil society, and academia. Discussions revolved around how religious communities can play a central role in promoting sustainable practices and influencing climate action. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted that the government has carried out large-scale afforestation efforts, planting over 210 crore saplings across the state in the last eight years, with a survival rate of 70 to 80 percent. He also commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi for implementing a nationwide ban on single-use plastics to curb environmental degradation.
The event also marked the release of the Mahakumbh Declaration on Climate Change by Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh. The declaration underscores the need for integrating environmental consciousness into religious and cultural traditions. Noted spiritual leaders such as Swami Mukundananda, founder of Jagadguru Kripalu Yog Trust, and Swami Chidanand Saraswati, president of Parmarth Niketan, stressed the importance of preserving nature, stating that faith leaders have the moral authority to inspire action on climate change. Chandra Bhushan, president and chief executive officer of International Forum for Environment, Sustainability & Technology, reiterated that faith and religion hold immense power in influencing communities, making religious institutions key allies in addressing the climate crisis.
