The students hailing from various educational institutions today expressed their views on the ‘Environmental Issues’ in a symposium organized at Govt. Hr. Sec. School, Nagri-Parole here.Minister for Forests, Environment and Ecology Choudhary Lal Singh was the chief guest on this occasion. Several cultural programs and skits depicting the theme of environmental conservation were also showcased by the students.The students expressed their concern over the increasing environmental pollution and stressed on the need for conservation of environment. Majority of the speakers were of the opinion that main cause of environmental degradation is the overpopulation that leads to forest encroachment and man-animal conflict.They extensively suggested various ways of protecting environment, natural water bodies and wetlands. The students gave loud and clear message of conserving wildlife especially those on the verge of extinction.While addressing the gathering, Lal Singh said that protection and conservation of environment is not the sole responsibility of Forest Department but every stakeholder especially children must partake in activities to preserve green gold.
Elaborating on the need for environment conservation, the Minister stressed on the importance of conservation and preservation of wildlife for sustainable development of mankind and further emphasized on the need to create awareness about the nature and safeguarding environment by adopting eco friendly lifestyle among students.He further said that measures should be taken to avoid man-animal conflict and appealed the people to make the state green and safe haven for rich biodiversity besides conserving wildlife and their habitat.Underscoring the role of teacher in student’s life, the Minister said that teacher is a representative of the society who inculcates moral precepts in students. In the development of a country, great attention has to be paid to education and learning, as well as good morals, and nobody is more suited to assist in this process than the humble teacher, he added.Later, the Minister took part in the plantation drive inside the premises of the school and distributed prizes among the participants.Tehsildar Nagri-Parole, Principal, DFOs, Students, Staff members and prominent citizens were present during the function.