In connection with the celebrations of International Mountain Day, the Department of Ecology, Environment & Remote Sensing today organized an impressive programme at Government Higher Secondary School, Gurah Salathia in Purmandal Block of Samba district.Minister for Forests, Ecology & Environment, Bali Bhagat was chief guest on the occasion.Speaking on the occasion, the Minister highlighted the significance of mountains and environment in our day to day life and said that it is the duty of every individual to protect all the natural resources around them to secure their future. He expressed concern over the alarming situation that has arisen due to constant degradation of environment and ruthless deforestation. He said almost entire world is so much concerned about this important issue and efforts are being made to develop a consensus to effectively deal with the menace of climate change and global warming. He stressed the need for a state-wide comprehensive awareness campaign through different mediums to educate the masses about the adverse impact of climate change on the living beings and need for conservation of all natural resources.
Asking the students to develop a habit to plant one sapling on their every birth day, the Minister said that the endeavor can bring a miracle and soon the State of Jammu and Kashmir lead in promotion of environment and green cover. He said students are the best ambassadors who can spread the message of environment conservation and they need to be educated on this vital issue in the daily school assembly.Several speakers including, Director Environment, Ecology & Remote Sensing, Mr. O.P. Sharma Vidyarthi, former Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Mr. S.D. Swtantra and other experts expressed concern over the environment hazards and called for concrete steps to save the nature to make the earth planet a better place to live.The Department also organized a debate and painting competition among the students on the environment conservation and the Minister gave away certificates of merit and mementoes to those who secured best slots.The Minister also planted a sapling in the premises of the school to commemorate the occasion.