Berhampur: In a thoughtful and forward-looking initiative that blends administrative discipline with environmental sensitivity, Ganjam Collector V Kirtivasan has directed all government offices across the district to refrain from accepting flower bouquets, gifts and sweets during New Year and on all future courtesy calls and official occasions.
The Collector’s letter, circulated to all heads of offices, commissioners, sub-divisional magistrates, block development officers, tehsildars, executive officers and other senior functionaries, marks a symbolic yet substantive shift from ceremonial excess to sustainable responsibility. “These materials place an avoidable burden on sanitation systems and the environment,” the letter noted, stressing the need to replace bouquets with meaningful, eco-friendly actions.
Instead, the Collector has advocated for simple, concrete acts of sustainability. These include avoiding single-use plastics, carrying refillable water bottles, conserving electricity and water, and actively participating in tree plantation and nurturing activities.
Such mindful practices, the letter noted, are far more enduring expressions of respect and goodwill.
Adding an innovative and participatory dimension to the initiative, the administration has proposed the introduction of ‘‘My New Year Pledge to Mother Eart
h’ at the reception of government offices. Visitors will be invited to record a personal commitment towards environmental protection, either manually on pledge cards or digitally through a QR code–based web link. Suggested pledges include promises such as refraining from using single-use plastic bags, avoiding disposable plastic bottles, or planting at least one tree every month throughout 2026.
Visitors opting for the digital route can also download a ‘Sustainability Certificate’ upon submitting their pledge and are encouraged to share it on social media to amplify awareness.
The underlying objective of this initiative is to instil conscious, environmentally responsible behaviour among both citizens and officials. It aligns closely with national and state priorities aimed at reducing plastic pollution, conserving natural resources and advancing the sustainable development goals.
Officials have been urged to lead by example and sensitise staff and stakeholders about the importance of this cultural shift towards sustainability.
Reacting to the initiative, environmentalist Sudhit Rout said: “I am thrilled. For over two decades, I have diligently followed these practices and actively advocated for them. To avoid single-use plastic, I even carry my own steel plate, glass, and spoon to parties and feasts. I have been pursuing this cause largely on my own. Your support will make a tremendous difference.”
He further emphasised that plastic pollution poses an existential threat to humanity. “Microplastics have now infiltrated every corner of the planet—from the depths of the Mariana Trench to the summit of Mount Everest, and even from human lungs to brains. This menace must be tackled by every possible means,” he stated.