| At Maha Kumbh, religious leaders, experts to discuss ways to tackle climate change on Feb 16 | | |
Agencies
LUCKNOW, Feb 12: Amid rising global concerns over climate change, the Uttar Pradesh government has decided to approach religious leaders for ways to deal with the climate challenge.
The state government, in partnership with the International Forum for Environment, Sustainability & Technology (iFOREST), an organisation of scientists and environmentalists, will host 'Faith of Kumbh and Climate Change' at the Maha Kumbh on February 16 - a climate conclave featuring religious leaders and experts.
When asked why religious leaders have been approached for the conclave, UP Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar said, "Because these dharma gurus are thought leaders too who have the power to influence societal consciousness."
A session on the 'Role of religious leaders in environmental protection and climate change mitigation' would have experts discussing how "thought leaders" can help find a solution to the vexed issue.
Other topics like 'Role of governments in promoting and backing faith-based organisations in climate action', 'Role of religious organisations in disaster relief, adaptation, and mitigation', 'Water security and climate change', and 'Promoting Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment)' would all witness religious leaders rubbing shoulders with experts.
"We have for long utilised religious leaders to influence minds for various causes. As DM of Aligarh and Moradabad, I remember taking the help of dharma gurus for their support on pulse polio.
"Now, what could be a bigger and better issue than climate change? These seers are repositories of ancient wisdom and knowledge, and we intend to gain from their insight," Kumar said.
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