NEW DELHI: Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit on Thursday said lakhs of schools children were working as our environment ambassadors to make Delhi clean, green and pollution-free. This would go a long way in giving inspiration to elders to concentrate on environmental issues and work for its protection to ensure a healthy future for the generations to come, she added.

Ms. Dikshit was speaking at the inaugural ceremony of an "Eco-Fair and Exhibition" of eco-friendly products prepared by eco clubs functioning in various schools and colleges of the Capital along with a number of non-government organisations. Environment Minister Raj Kumar Chauhan presided over the function.

The Chief Minister called upon the youth to come forward in protection of environment that is facing a great challenge due to rapid urbanisation. "We would be able to make a cleaner and greener Delhi only with constructive contribution of the younger generation who would also become role model for the entire society in this field," she remarked.

Mr. Chauhan said the objective of this meet was to interact with the students, teachers of various participating schools and colleges on environmental issues of Delhi. He appreciated substantial contribution of all the 1,600 eco-clubs for highlighting environmental concerns on the forefront and bringing down pollution levels in Delhi.

The exhibition is also disseminating importance of solid waste management, vermin-composting, zero garbage, rain water harvesting, water conservation, plantation drive, energy conservation and curbing air, noise and water pollution.

Due to the efforts of the various agencies as well as massive involvement of the eco clubs students and teachers, Delhi's green cover increased from 26 sq km in 1997 to 268 sq km in 2003 which has further gone up to more than 320 sq km. It is more than 19 per cent of the total geographical area of Delhi.

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