In a compelling initiative that brought together environmental concern and public health, the Delhi Medical Association (DMA) commemorated World Environment Day by launching a widespread campaign titled “Beat Plastic Pollution.” Focused on the global theme “Ending Plastic Pollution,” the campaign aimed to raise awareness about the harmful effects of plastic use and to promote sustainable practices across Delhi. 

Held in the Yamuna Khadar area of Kartar Nagar, the event featured a Tiranga Yatra and a Clean Yamuna Drive, symbolizing unity and environmental responsibility. It was part of the DMA’s 15-day campaign conducted through its 13 citywide branches, all working in concert to educate the public on the importance of reducing plastic waste.

The campaign also aligned with the national “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, encouraging participants to plant trees in the name of their mothers—a gesture combining environmental care with emotional significance. 

Several dignitaries lent their presence to the occasion, including Mahant Shri Naval Kishore Dass Ji, Delhi Mayor Shri Raja Iqbal Singh, MLA Shri Ajay Mahawar, MLA Dr. Anil Goyal, and Dr. Vinay Aggarwal, a past national president of the association.

Their participation underscored the importance of collaborative efforts between government officials, political representatives, and the medical community in addressing environmental challenges.

  Dr. Girish Tyagi, President of DMA, emphasized the association’s commitment to national and environmental causes. He expressed pride in the organization’s role in supporting major government programmes, including the ongoing Clean Yamuna mission.

Reinforcing the theme of collective action, Dr. Ashwini Dalmiya, Chairman of the World Environment Day celebrations, highlighted the involvement of DMA’s branches throughout Delhi.

He said the campaign would play a pivotal role in educating the public on the dangers posed by plastic pollution and the importance of sustainable living.  In addition to awareness efforts, the campaign also prioritized community health.

More than 300 individuals received free health check-ups at a dedicated medical camp set up by the Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre. The camp offered preventive health examinations, ENT and clinical evaluations, pap smear screenings, blood sugar and pressure checks, tobacco cessation counselling, and nutritional guidance. Dr. Satish Lamba, Hony. State Secretary of DMA, noted that the event successfully merged environmental consciousness with healthcare outreach, demonstrating the association’s commitment to holistic well-being.