By Matters India Reporter
Bhubaneswar, July 29, 2020: Archbishop John Barwa of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar, head of the Catholic Church in Odisha, on July 29 congratulated a Catholic young woman from the eastern Indian state who has been named a member of the UN Secretary-General’s Youth Advisory Group.
“Climate change and global warming has become a burning issue of the day in the present situation,” the Divine Word archbishop said in a statement after a meeting with Archana Soreng.
The prelate says Soreng will provide perspectives, ideas and solutions to tackle the worsening climate crisis along with the other young people selected from all over the world.
The UN statement on July 27 announcing Soreng’s name says the 24-year-old Odisha youth is “experienced in advocacy and research, and she is working to document, preserve, and promote traditional knowledge and cultural practices of indigenous communities.”
Soreng is the former national convener of Tribal Commission at Adivasi Yuva Chetna Manch, All India Catholic University Federation. She started showing her leadership qualities from her school days.
“I am hopeful she will do well, taking Indian climate issues at UN level. I wish all the success as a promoter of the traditional knowledge and practices and contribute to the Global efforts on climate change,” Archbishop Barwa said in the statement.
Meanwhile Soreng has been flood with congratulatory greeting from throughout the world.
“You deserve it because you have focused on the issues of not only India but the whole world. I appreciate you and wish you great success in this responsible job. God bless you and your team. Once you are settled there you are welcome to Switzerland for an exchange,” Sheeja Kolacherril responded to the news of Soreng’s nomination in Matters India.
Father Suresh Minz from Singarmunda in Odisha says Soreng has filled everyone with pride.”U r a dazzling comet. May God bless you abundantly,” the priest wrote.