Team Herald
MARGAO: With Indian ecologist Madhav Gadgil being named one of the six ‘Champions of Earth’ by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the citizens’ group Madganvcho Avaz has renewed calls for the implementation of his recommendations to safeguard Goa’s environment.
The UNEP recognised Gadgil with its highest environmental accolade for his pioneering contributions to environmental research and community advocacy, which have shaped policies and public awareness about conserving natural resources.
Congratulating Gadgil, the group hailed him as a “great son of India.” Member Prabhav Naik emphasised the significance of Gadgil’s landmark report on the Western Ghats, which identifies the growing threats of industrialisation and climate change to this ecologically sensitive region. Naik pointed out that Gadgil’s work, which includes seven books and over 225 scientific papers, has played a pivotal role in shaping environmental discourse in India. “As youth, we must pressure the government to adopt Gadgil’s proposals to protect our natural heritage,” Naik added.
Despite the report’s critical insights, citizen activists, including Pravin Borkar, expressed concern that its recommendations remain unimplemented due to resistance from State governments, including Goa. “The failure to act could result in tragic consequences, like the Wayanad landslides,” Borkar warned.
The group has urged the government to act promptly, pointing out that Goa’s fragile ecosystems face mounting threats that demand immediate attention. They view the UN honour as a reminder of Gadgil’s visionary work and the need to translate his recommendations into concrete action to avert environmental disasters.