Remembering Mahatma Gandhi on his birth anniversary, Yadav praised his concern for nature and balanced life style.
"Gandhiji had said we should take from nature only that much which is required," Yadav said.
"Mass movements could prevent further degradation of environment," he said at a programme 'ek sur, ek taal'.
About 11,000 students were present at Eklavya stadium during the programme in the Taj city.
The UP chief minister presented cheques worth Rs 50,000 each to 16 gymnasts.