Delhi’s Bold Climate Education Drive: 2 Lakh Students to Lead Eco-Warrior Movement Across NCR
In a landmark move to integrate environmental responsibility into school and college education, the Delhi Government has launched a massive eco-awareness campaign to empower nearly two lakh students as “eco-warriors.” The initiative, unveiled on May 23, 2025, spans educational institutions in Delhi and the surrounding NCR region, reflecting a long-term vision for youth-led climate action and sustainable living.
The campaign will be implemented in collaboration with The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), a leading organisation with over four decades of global experience in sustainable development. A formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between TERI and the Department of Environment, Government of NCT of Delhi, setting the foundation for structured and impactful implementation.
Key Highlights of the Campaign
- Target Audience: 2 lakh students across schools and colleges in Delhi-NCR
- Implementing Partner: TERI
- Budget Allocation: ₹40 lakh
- Number of Participating Eco-Clubs: 2,000 institutions
- Duration: June to November 2025
- Lead Agency: Department of Environment, Delhi Government
More Than Just Awareness: A Call for Behavioural Change
At the campaign launch, Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa emphasized the deeper purpose of the initiative. “This campaign is about instilling a deep-rooted sense of responsibility in our youth. These students will not just learn about climate action—they will lead it,” he said.
Rather than focusing solely on theoretical learning, the programme integrates experiential activities to instill sustainable values and actions. These include:
- Storytelling sessions on environmental themes
- Hands-on activities such as plantation drives and waste segregation
- Interactive eco-games and challenges to reinforce learning
- Creative outreach through posters, plays, and public messages
The campaign aims to embed sustainability into the daily lives of young citizens, ensuring that climate consciousness becomes a natural part of their education and behaviour.
80 “Paryavaran Sanrakshaks” to Lead the Movement on Campuses
A unique feature of the campaign is forming a dedicated team of 80 “paryavaran sanrakshaks”—environmental protectors—who will serve as leaders and mentors within their schools and colleges. This group will include students and educators who undergo specialised training to serve as eco-leaders within their institutions.
Their responsibilities will include:
- Coordinating eco-club activities
- Mentoring other students in sustainability practices
- Reporting progress and engagement metrics
- Acting as the first point of contact for campaign-related efforts
This peer-led model ensures scalability and encourages a ripple effect, inspiring more students to participate in climate-positive actions through relatable role models.
Empowerment Over Enforcement: A Vision Aligned with National and State Leadership
The campaign is aligned with Modi's broader national vision, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the state-level commitment of Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta's state-level commitment to combat pollution through education and citizen engagement, and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta's state-level commitment to the same.
“We're going beyond enforcement and infrastructure—we're investing in education and empowerment,” said Sirsa, highlighting the participatory approach of the campaign. He noted that while infrastructural and regulatory interventions are essential, long-term climate impact can only be achieved through community involvement, especially by the youth.
Funding and Scope: ₹40 Lakh Boost to 2,000 Eco-Clubs
To support the campaign activities, the Delhi Government has allocated a budget of ₹40 lakh, which will be disbursed across 2,000 eco-clubs in various educational institutions. Each eco-club will be responsible for:
- Organising activities under the campaign umbrella
- Documenting participation and outcomes
- Conducting regular review sessions to assess impact
The eco-clubs serve as focal points for sustainability engagement in schools and colleges and are expected to act as change agents within their respective institutions.
Campaign Timeline and Roll-Out Plan
The eco-sensitisation programme will run from June to November 2025, covering the critical academic months when student engagement is highest. TERI will coordinate with school administrators and teachers to ensure:
- Structured activity plans
- Curriculum integration, wherever possible
- Continuous monitoring and evaluation of student participation and learning
Workshops, training sessions, and regular updates will be rolled out throughout the six-month period to ensure consistent momentum and community involvement.
A Participatory Climate Vision for Delhi’s Future
This campaign is not a standalone initiative but forms a key part of Delhi’s broader environmental strategy, which includes:
- Promoting clean mobility
- Enforcing regulatory air quality standards
- Encouraging citizen-led green initiatives
The Delhi Government is redefining how cities can foster inclusive, participatory, and youth-led environmental governance by placing students at the center of climate advocacy.
As the campaign takes off in June, Delhi hopes to witness the rise of a new generation of eco-literate. These action-driven citizens are aware of climate issues and committed to being part of the solution.
