Lok Sabha Speaker attends Sohan Singh Memorial Lecture
The Sunday Mail
New Delhi: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said that Indian society has always worshipped nature and held it in deep reverence; respect for the environment is not a belief but an integral part of life. He said that Indian traditions, scriptures, and folk tales emphasize the harmony between humans and nature. He also noted that in India, children are taught to live in harmony with nature from childhood, reflecting the enduring cultural and ethical connection between environmental consciousness and the Indian way of life.
Mr. Birla made these remarks while addressing a distinguished gathering at the Constitution Club of India on the occasion of Sohan Singh’s birth anniversary. The event was organized by the Sohan Singh Seva Trust on the theme “Environment: Crisis and Solutions.”
Paying heartfelt tributes to Sohan Singh, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha described him as a visionary and selfless social worker who dedicated his life to serving the nation. He said that Mr. Sohan Singh not only worked for social change, but also believed that true change begins at the individual level. He said that this inner transformation enhances moral strength, creates a virtuous society, which ultimately leads to nation-building. Mr. Birla further said that his ideals of simple living and high thinking will always inspire future generations in the country.
Highlighting the importance of environmental protection, Birla said that human activities have been the primary cause of ecological imbalance. Referring to the COVID-19 pandemic, he said that when human activities stopped, nature began to heal itself – rivers became cleaner, air quality improved, and life began to flourish in forests – a reminder of the importance of sustainable living.
He suggested that as a nation, India must unite with a renewed resolve to protect and preserve the environment for future generations. He said that it is the responsibility of every citizen to ensure that progress and sustainability go hand in hand. He said that collective consciousness and responsible living are essential to building a clean, green, and healthy India.
