Students, experts unite for environmental conservation at SSM College

Baramulla, Aug 20: An Environment Conclave focusing on ecological challenges was held today at SSM College of Engineering, Parihaspora, in collaboration with the Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation (NLCO).

A statement said that the event aimed to inspire youth to form a dedicated volunteer committee committed to restoring degraded environmental sites, including wetlands, springs, and other fragile ecosystems. Speakers emphasised that the initiative must go beyond academic discussion and translate into practical, action-driven restoration on the ground.

Participants were sensitised to the adverse impacts of human activity on the environment and encouraged to take collective responsibility for preserving and restoring natural resources. The conclave witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and faculty members.

M Y Tarigami, MLA and Chairman of the Legislative Committee on Environment, extended full support and assured all possible assistance to make the mission successful.

Manzoor Wangnoo, Chairman of NLCO, pledged that NLCO and SSM College will work together to bring positive change in Kashmir’s ecologically sensitive landscape through tangible ground-level action. Ridha Rashid, Director of Hamdan Herbs, highlighted Kashmir’s rich biodiversity and the potential for sustainable entrepreneurship.

Dr Muzamil Ahmad Rafiqui, Superintendent Engineer of J&K Lake Conservation & Management Authority, outlined his organisation’s pivotal role in the protection and management of Kashmir’s lakes. Haya Qazi, Education Administrator at SSM College, stressed the importance of active citizen and youth involvement in ecological restoration, announcing that the student committee formed during the conclave will adopt different restoration sites throughout the year.

The speakers collectively underscored the urgency of protecting Kashmir’s fragile ecosystems and called on the younger generation to emerge as proactive custodians of the environment. The event concluded with a joint pledge by students, faculty, and dignitaries to sustain efforts for reviving natural resources, marking a significant step toward a greener, healthier, and more sustainable Kashmir.