Pankaja Gopinath Munde, Hon. Cabinet Minister for Environment, Animal Husbandry and Climate Change, Maharashtra State, outlines the state’s roadmap for environmental conservation, climate resilience and sustainable development.

Hon. Minister Pankaja Gopinath Munde’s commitment to environmental conservation is rooted as much in personal conviction as it is in public policy. As she describes it…

“After entering my 40s, my perspective on the environment changed profoundly. As a child, I would lie down on the terrace with my grandmother, gazing at the stars and wondering about the mysteries of the universe. Today, those moments of wonder have evolved into a strong belief that our planet is far more than a matter of astronomy or geology.

“As a spiritual person, I believe Mother Earth has given us life, making its preservation a sacred responsibility. Climate change may be one of the defining challenges of our time, but it is also the result of centuries of exploiting a planet that has shown remarkable patience. We often speak about giving back, and now is the time to do so. Just as our previous generations left us valuable material inheritances, we must leave future generations something equally precious: Clean air, safe water, fertile soil, and a healthy environment.

“This responsibility does not belong to governments alone; it belongs to all of us. The principle is simple: Reduce. Reuse. Recycle. Nature itself operates in cycles of renewal, reminding us that everything is connected, and that caring for the Earth is both our duty and our legacy.”

As Maharashtra’s Hon. Cabinet Minister for Environment, Animal Husbandry and Climate Change, Pankaja Gopinath Munde has translated that philosophy into action through a wide-ranging environmental agenda. She is spearheading initiatives aimed at protecting natural ecosystems while supporting sustainable development, helping shape a greener and more climate-resilient future.

Environmental Preservation Initiatives

Maharashtra State River Rejuvenation Agency (MSRRA): Restoring river ecosystems through pollution control, river basin management, groundwater recharge, biodiversity conservation and community participation.

M-SHORE Project: A World Bank-supported initiative strengthening the resilience of Maharashtra’s coastline through mangrove protection, coastal erosion management and climate adaptation measures.

Majhi Vasundhara Abhiyan (MVA): The state’s flagship environmental movement promoting action across Earth, Water, Air, Energy and Sky through afforestation, water conservation, waste management, renewable energy and citizen engagement.

Climate Action and Adaptation: Advancing climate-resilient development through strategic climate planning, sustainable urban growth, renewable energy adoption and ecosystem restoration.

Mangrove and Biodiversity Conservation: Strengthening the protection and restoration of mangroves and other critical ecosystems to conserve biodiversity and enhance resilience against climate-related challenges.

Strengthening India’s Environmental & Conservation Efforts – Key Priorities

River rejuvenation and watershed management to strengthen water security, restore ecosystems and improve river health.

Scientific waste management and circular economy practices to reduce pollution and enhance resource efficiency.

Greater coastal resilience through initiatives such as M-SHORE, protecting mangroves, coastal ecosystems and vulnerable communities from climate impact.

Conservation and restoration of forests, wetlands and biodiversity-rich ecosystems.

Promotion of renewable energy, electric mobility and low-carbon development.

Leveraging technology, data-driven governance and community participation to accelerate environmental action.

Citizens For A Greener Future

Here are a few sustainable choices we can make and contribute to protecting our environment…

Adopt cleaner mobility options like public transport, carpooling, cycling and electric vehicles wherever possible.

Support renewable energy through rooftop solar systems and energy-efficient appliances.

Practise responsible consumption by reducing waste, segregating it at source, and choosing sustainable products.

Conserve water through rainwater harvesting and mindful usage.

Participate in local environmental efforts, including tree plantations, biodiversity conservation, river rejuvenation and other such initiatives.

Promote climate-conscious habits within families, workplaces, educational institutions and communities.

Entrepreneur. Conservation champion. Renewable energy advocate. Through Vantara and Reliance’s green energy initiatives, Anant Ambani has emerged as a leading voice for wildlife protection, biodiversity conservation and a more sustainable future.

As Executive Director of Reliance Industries, Anant Ambani has focused on two key priorities: Advancing India’s clean energy transition and strengthening wildlife conservation. His approach is rooted in the belief that economic progress and environmental stewardship must go hand-in-hand.

A major part of this vision is the Dhirubhai Ambani Green Energy Giga Complex in Jamnagar, a large-scale renewable energy manufacturing ecosystem being developed to support solar power, energy storage, green hydrogen, fuel cells and power electronics. The project is designed to help accelerate India’s transition towards cleaner sources of energy.

Alongside these efforts, Anant Ambani leads Vantara, a wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and conservation initiative based in Jamnagar. The facility provides specialised care for injured, abused and endangered animals while supporting broader conservation and animal welfare efforts through a team of veterinarians, wildlife experts and researchers.

Together, these initiatives reflect a commitment to protecting biodiversity while supporting sustainable growth. Through investments in clean energy and conservation, Anant Ambani continues to advocate for a future where development and environmental responsibility advance together.

Conversation Starter

Through his work with Vantara and renewable energy initiatives, Anant Ambani has championed conversations around:

• Wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and conservation.

• Protecting endangered species and preserving biodiversity.

• Creating world-class infrastructure for animal care and welfare.

• Accelerating India’s transition to renewable and clean energy.

• Advancing green hydrogen, solar power and energy storage technologies.

• Recognising the connection between ecological health and sustainable growth.

Did You Know?

• In 2026, he announced the launch of Vantara University, envisioned as a global hub for wildlife sciences, veterinary medicine, research and conservation education.

• Vantara is home to the world’s largest elephant hospital, featuring a custom-built deep-water hydrotherapy pool designed to help treat elephants with age-related ailments such as arthritis.

• Anant Ambani became the youngest recipient and the first Asian to receive the Global Humanitarian Award for Animal Welfare from the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries.

• Under Reliance’s new energy strategy, the Jamnagar complex is being developed as an integrated clean-energy ecosystem supporting solar energy, green hydrogen and energy storage technologies.

• Reliance is also developing a 5,50,000-acre solar project in Kutch, Gujarat, one of the largest renewable energy developments in the world.

Actor. Advocate. Entrepreneur. Priyanka Chopra Jonas is using her voice and influence to champion a more sustainable future.

Through her humanitarian work and entrepreneurial ventures, Priyanka Chopra Jonas has emerged as a prominent advocate for environmental responsibility and sustainable development. Her efforts have focused on raising awareness about the interconnected challenges facing communities around the world, while encouraging action that creates long-term impact.

For nearly two decades, her association with UNICEF has taken her to communities confronting issues such as limited access to healthcare, education and clean water, as well as the growing effects of climate change.

Through initiatives including Climate Warriors, she has helped amplify conversations around environmental responsibility and the role young people can play in driving change.

Beyond advocacy, Priyanka has brought these values into her business ventures. In 2021, she co-founded Anomaly, a haircare brand built around conscious consumption and a commitment to reducing environmental impact. Across her work, she continues to highlight the importance of practical, inclusive solutions that contribute to a healthier future for both people and the planet.

Conversation Starter

Through her role as a Global Goodwill Ambassador, Priyanka has amplified conversations around:

• Climate change and its impact on children.

• Access to clean water and sanitation.

• Environmental resilience in vulnerable communities.

• Youth-led climate action.

• Sustainable development and equity.

Did You Know?

• Priyanka Chopra Jonas became a UNICEF National Ambassador in India in 2010 and was appointed a Global Goodwill Ambassador in 2016.

• Anomaly was among the first celebrity-founded beauty brands to place recycled packaging at the centre of its identity rather than treating sustainability as a secondary initiative.

• Her production company, Purple Pebble Pictures, produced the Marathi film ‘Paani’, which focuses on water conservation and won the National Film Award for Best Film on Environment Conservation.

• Several of Priyanka’s entrepreneurial ventures and investments have focused on innovation, accessibility and long-term social impact.

• In discussions on entrepreneurship and development, she has often highlighted the connection between environmental progress, social equity and community well-being.

Actor. Animal lover. Sustainability advocate. Through CoExist, Alia Bhatt has encouraged a new generation to rethink its relationship with nature, animals and the environment.

Through her work on and off screen, Alia Bhatt has used her platform to advocate for environmental awareness, animal welfare and more mindful living. In 2017, she launched CoExist with the vision of fostering a more harmonious relationship between people, animals and the natural world.

Over the years, CoExist has highlighted issues ranging from pet adoption and animal welfare to biodiversity conservation and sustainable living. Through campaigns and conversations, the initiative encourages simple yet meaningful actions — such as reducing waste, reusing resources and making conscious consumer choices — while reinforcing the idea that sustainability is a shared responsibility.

CoExist has also helped amplify the work of grassroots organisations, environmental initiatives and purpose-driven businesses, bringing greater attention to efforts that support both people and the planet. Through these initiatives, Alia continues to champion a future where environmental stewardship and compassion for animals go hand-in-hand.

Conversation Starter

Through her platform CoExist, Alia has championed conversations around:

• Creating a kinder, more compassionate world for animals.

• Protecting wildlife and preserving natural habitats.

• Promoting sustainability through everyday choices.

• Fostering environmental awareness among younger generations.

• Encouraging harmony between people and the natural world.

• Supporting ethical and responsible consumption.

• Recognising the connection between animal welfare and environmental health.

• Inspiring collective action towards a more sustainable future.

Did You Know?

• Alia Bhatt launched Ed-a-Mamma in 2020 as a children’s clothing brand built around sustainability, with a focus on natural fibres, plastic-free packaging and nature-inspired messaging.

• She has consistently advocated for adopting rescued animals rather than purchasing pets, using her platform to support animal adoption and welfare initiatives.

• Alia has invested in Phool.co, a startup that upcycles temple flower waste into sustainable products, helping reduce river pollution and create eco-friendly alternatives.

• Her production house, Eternal Sunshine Productions, partnered with All Living Things Environmental Film Festival (ALT EFF) to spotlight environmental stories. She also served as an executive producer for the acclaimed miniseries ‘Poacher’.

• Known for promoting circular fashion, Alia has re-worn and upcycled her own outfits and launched the “Mi Wardrobe Is Su Wardrobe” campaign, encouraging the resale of pre-owned clothing and reducing textile waste.