ICYM Madhya Pradesh Launches Second Phase of “Harit Yuva Harit Bharat” Environmental Campaign

Bhopal, June 22, 2026: Reinforcing its commitment to environmental stewardship and youth-led ecological action, the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) Madhya Pradesh Region launched the second phase of its flagship campaign, “Harit Yuva Harit Bharat” (Green Youth, Green India), at Bhopal Central Railway Station on June 21.

The initiative, organised in collaboration with the Syro-Malabar Youth Movement (SMYM), Young Christian Students (YCS), and MIJARC, seeks to mobilise Catholic youth across Madhya Pradesh to actively participate in environmental conservation and afforestation efforts. The campaign, first launched in 2025 under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Joshy Eriat Padayatty Poulose, Regional Director of ICYM Madhya Pradesh, aims to plant 10,000 saplings across the state by the end of 2027.

The launch programme was attended by several senior railway officials, including Mr. Ashish Duvey, Director of Bhopal Railway Station; Mr. Harish Lal, Chief Officer Superintendent (Commercial), DRM Office, Bhopal; Mr. Rajesh Kumar, Deputy Station Master; and Mr. Surendra Mohan Sharma, Retired Chief Reservation Supervisor.

Among the Church representatives present were Fr. Shinto, Director of Madhya Pradesh Samaj Seva (MPSS); Fr. Joshy Eriat Padayatty Poulose, Director of the ICYM MP Regional Youth Commission; Sr. Deepika Swaran, Regional Youth Lady Animator; and members of the ICYM MP Regional Executive Committee.

Addressing the gathering, the dignitaries commended the Regional Youth Commission for its proactive efforts to promote environmental awareness through practical initiatives. They underscored the urgent need for collective responsibility in safeguarding creation and highlighted the vital role young people can play in building a greener and more sustainable future.

As a symbolic gesture marking the launch of the campaign’s second phase, approximately 500 saplings were distributed free of cost to railway officials, staff, and passengers at the station. The activity sought to encourage wider public participation in environmental conservation and foster a culture of ecological responsibility.

The programme received logistical and organisational support from Madhya Pradesh Samaj Seva (MPSS), while youth from the Diocese of Bhopal participated enthusiastically in the event.

According to the organisers, all ten dioceses of the ICYM Madhya Pradesh Region have been directed to formally inaugurate the second phase of the campaign within their respective dioceses. The regional campaign will continue until August 30, 2026, with a series of tree-planting and environmental awareness activities planned across the state.

The initiative reflects the Church’s growing commitment to ecological action inspired by the call to care for creation, while empowering young Catholics to become active stewards of the environment in their communities.

By Catholic Connect Reporter