Early Times Report JAMMU, Apr 23: The Department of Environmental Sciences, Central University of Jammu, celebrated International Mother Earth Day at the Brigadier Rajendra Singh Auditorium. The event was organized on the global theme "Our Power, Our Planet," aimed at empowering individuals, especially the youth to take meaningful action toward a sustainable future. The program "Prakriti, Paryavaran aur Urja: Nai Chetna ke Saath" ("Nature, Environment and Energy: With a New Consciousness"), began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp. Prof. Richa Kothari, Head, Department of Environmental Sciences, welcomed all the guests. In her address she laid emphasis on Department Vision and Mission. Prof. Sunil Dhar, Dean, School of Life Sciences, in his introductory remarks, reflected on the celebration of Earth Day and talked on the effect of climate change on glacial cover of the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The special address was delivered by Prof. Ramesh Arora, Director, IQAC, SGGWS University, Punjab, who spoke on "Protecting Planet Earth with Sustainable Practices," underscoring the role of education and policy in achieving long-term environmental goals. Prof. Dilip Kumar, Head, Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Northern Regional Campus, Jammu in his keynote address he streesed on (The Social and Cultural Foundation of Nature and Environment), focused on the intersection of culture, communication, and ecology. Umendra Dutt, Executive Director, Kheti Virasat Mission, Punjab, was the chief guest on the occasion. Dutt addressed the gathering on the importance of reviving indigenous ecological knowledge and sustainable agriculture. He urged students to embrace eco-friendly lifestyles and become agents of environmental transformation. Prof. Sanjeev Jain, Hon'ble Vice Chancellor, Central University of Jammu in his Presidential address, lauded the Department's efforts and urged students to take the message of sustainability beyond the campus. Prof. Jain appreciated the contributions of research scholars and the dedication of the non-teaching staff in making the celebration a success. Prof. Yashwant Singh, Registrar CU Jammu, congratulated the department for organizing the event and commended their efforts in raising ecological consciousness. The formal Vote of thanks was delivered by Prof. Deepak Pathania, Department of Environmental Sciences, Central University of Jammu. A special highlight of the celebration was the "EcoGiri" event, organized by students of the department of EVS. Under this initiative, students displayed a variety of decorative items creatively made from converted waste materials, showcasing how waste can be transformed into aesthetic and useful objects. Adding vibrance to the occasion, a Slogan and Poster Competition was also organized, drawing enthusiastic participation from students across various Departments of University. |