NEW DELHI/CHANDIGARH, FEB 5: Environmentalist and Rajya Sabha Member Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal has called for environmental studies to be made a compulsory subject in schools nationwide. During a session in the Upper House, he argued that environmental protection must be treated with the same academic weight as core subjects to foster a generation of conscious citizens.
The MP noted that the deepening rift between humanity and the natural world is a direct consequence of modern interference and greed. He mentioned that religious scriptures, particularly Gurbani, have long taught that air, water, and earth are the fundamental pillars of life, yet these resources now face unprecedented risks.
“When the foundation of environmental protection is laid in primary schools, environmentally conscious citizens will emerge as a strong force in society nationwide,” Seechewal said. He noted that the shift must begin at the primary level to ensure the safety of future generations.
The lawmaker expressed deep concern regarding the surge in global temperatures and the resulting increase in natural disasters like floods and droughts. He mentioned that climate imbalance is currently threatening all forms of life, including vegetation and aquatic species.
“Think Globally, Act Locally can only succeed when environmental education is not limited to textbooks but is implemented at the grassroots level,” he said. He suggested that practical activities such as tree plantation, water conservation, and waste management should become standard parts of the school experience to build a responsible society.
