India is the global host of World Environment Day being celebated on Tuesday to raise awareness about protecting the environment.

The theme this year is “Beat Plastic Pollution”.

Ever since its conception in 1974, World Environment Day has had a special theme relating to the pressing environmental concern at the time.

UN Environment Executive Director, Erik Solheim said that the the aim of World Environment Day is to make India and world’s home plastic-free to avoid enormous pollution to our environment & to our own health. He also said said that this must stop and there’s no one better to inspire to this than Mahatma Gandhi and Sadhguru.

A number of  programs are lined up to observe the day to sensitise masses about environment protection.

President Ram Nath Kovind in a tweet said, “On World Environment Day, we reaffirm our commitment to a cleaner and sustainable planet. India is hosting the global celebrations this year. And we are obligated to bequeathing a greener and eco-friendly legacy to our children.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair the plenary session on World Environment Day in New Delhi. In his Mann Ki Baat programme, PM Modi had asked the country to wholeheartedly participate in World Environment Day celebrations.

The Prime MIister shared a video on World Environment Day. Extending his greetings on World Environment Day, PM said, “Together, let us ensure that our future generations live in a clean and green planet, in harmony with nature.”