Chennai: Launching Youth Exnora International here on Thursday, Governor Surjit Singh Barnala asked the youth to volunteer themselves in the mission to protect the earth from the perils of climate change.
In his address, the Governor said the country had huge youth power and brain power and there was a need to channel them in the right direction.
As global warming impacts were seen in the country with the melting of glaciers, sinking of eastern islands, coastal flooding, low crop yields and frequent storms, the need of the hour was to adopt eco-friendly lifestyle pattern, increase green cover, reduce carbon footprint and harvest natural resources of power.
“Harmony lies in mutual understanding between people among different religions. Religion is a binding force to solidarity and unity,” he said.
As the basic tenet of all religions was love, he called upon the youth to recognise the basic oneness of all religions and come together and radiate the message of love, fellowship and friendliness.
Pat for Exnora
N. Ram, Editor-in-Chief, The Hindu, said the youth were the engines powering progress. Recalling the day he launched Exnora International, Mr. Ram appreciated Exnora's commitment to the cause of environment.
A.K. Tareen, Senior Trade Commissioner, India – South Australian government, said it had set a target of reducing its ecological footprint by 30 per cent in the next twenty years.
Growing a million trees in the past seven years, the government planned to plant another 1.5 million saplings in the next four years.
Abdul Ghani and Mathew Jose assumed charge as president and general secretary of Youth Exnora International.
Exnora International Founder M.B. Nirmal and president Sulochana Ramaseshan spoke.
