World Environment Day: Schools across north Kashmir abuzz with environment conservation initiatives
Baramulla, Jun 5: The educational institutions across north Kashmir remained abuzz with activities aimed at creating awareness about the environment conservation with the key role played by the school going children. From rallies to plantation drives and from skits to speeches, the school children remained at forefront to create awareness about the ills of plastic use. A day-long function was held at Shah Rasool Memorial (SRM) Welkin school Sopore to celebrate World Environment Day, with a call for conservation.
The event was organised with the active participation of the students of the school, raising awareness about ecological preservation. Conservator of Forests, north circle Dr Irfan Ali Shah was the chief guest at the occasion. During the event, the students from primary and upper primary classes performed on stage to raise awareness about environment conservation. Like SRM Welkin School, the students remained the star attraction for the World Environment Day event celebrated in other schools as well The management of SRM Welkin school received applause from the Conservator of Forests, north circle, saying the campus was "one of best and clean campuses in the area."
"SRM welkin school is one the most clean campuses in the entire Sopore area. It is the golden spot and the best campuses in the area," Irfan Ali Shah said.
Another function to celebrate World Environment Day was hosted by Valley Public School Sopore. The function was organised by Environment Protection Group (EPG) in collaboration with North Forest Circle of J&K Forest Department to create awareness among the younger generation to minimise the use of plastics.
Convenor EPG Faiz Bakshi in his address the objective of organising this programme in Sopore was to sow the seeds of environmental responsibility among the youth.
"Ending plastic pollution is more than a campaign. It is a necessity. The future of our wetlands, rivers, forests, and biodiversity lies in the hands of our students. EPG is committed to guiding and supporting them on this path,” he said. Guest of Honour, Zareef Ahmad Zareef in his address reflected on the deep-rooted cultural relationship between Kashmiris and nature. “Plastic pollution and environmental neglect are modern symptoms of our moral disconnect. Nature was once our companion — we must revive that bond. I urge students to lead this silent revolution," he said.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Sopore, Shabbir Ahmad Raina in his address spoke about the growing environmental challenges faced by the region and called for grassroots action. “Efforts must start from our homes, schools and communities. Our youth must become active guardians of the environment,” he said. Co-founder and trustee of EPG in his address expressed concern over the widespread environmental degradation, particularly the loss of wetlands and water bodies like Wular and Haigam. Meanwhile, similar events were held in Government schools of the north Kashmir area as well. Government Middle School (GMS) Hamray organised a special programme aimed at creating awareness about safeguarding the natural resources and environment conservation. The students presented an array of programmes on the occasion.
Similarly, Government High School Rangpath, Qaziabad also organised different activities on eve of the World Environment Day. The students participated in a plantation drive organised in the school premises.
