Dharmendra Pradhan, the Union Education Minister, actively participated in the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ plantation drive in Sambalpur. He highlighted the importance of such initiatives in fostering environmental conservation, aligning with the SDGs, and supporting India’s ambitious net-zero target by 2070. The event brought together numerous educational institutions, community groups, and government offices. Prior to this, Pradhan, along with Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, attended the Rath Yatra in Puri, where they offered prayers and acknowledged the efficient arrangements made. They also visited the ICCC, which utilized advanced technology to ensure a safe and well-managed Rath Yatra.
