SHIMLA - The Himalayan Forest Research Institute, Shimla held celebrated World Environment Day as a part of the Mission Life campaign. The campaign aims to raise awareness about environmental protection and encourage individuals to take responsibility for their actions. HFRI scientists warn about the deadly Plastic Menace in Himalaya.
Dr. Sandeep Sharma, Director of the institute, emphasized the significance of 'Mission Life' initiated by the Prime Minister of India.
The campaign addresses the pressing issue of climate change and its impact on the economy. This year's World Environment Day theme, "Solve Plastic Pollution," highlights the urgent need for personal commitment to environmental preservation.
Dr. Jagdish Singh educated children about the various aspects of Mission Life and the importance of taking small steps to protect the environment. Over the past month, the institute has conducted approximately 300 environmental awareness programs under Mission Life.
During the event, participants were urged to understand their responsibilities towards the environment.
Simple actions like turning off car engines at traffic signals can save fuel, reduce carbon emissions, and contribute to the economy. Shri V.K. Joshi, a retired IAS officer, emphasized the role of citizens in combating plastic pollution by replacing plastic bags with reusable cloth bags.
Plastic pollution poses a significant challenge, with global plastic production expected to double in the next 10 to 15 years. The United Nations Environment Programme and the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee for Plastics are actively working on international treaties to address the plastic crisis.
In a bid to conserve native species in the North West Himalaya, the Western Himalayan Temperate Arboretum (WHTA) is organised by the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department and implemented by the ICFRE - Himalayan Forest Research Institute, Shimla. WHTA has come as springboard for promotion of conservation among students and stakeholders as well.
Dr. Vaneet Jishtu, Scientist Incharge WHTA successfully coordinated the World Environment Day event with the participation of five government schools in Shimla.
The Himalayan Forest Research Institute continues its dedicated efforts towards environmental protection. As part of urban forestry development, a two-hectare western Himalayan temperate tree garden has been established at Potter Hill, Shimla, with 130 native forest species.
To raise awareness among students, competitions such as street plays, slogan writing, painting, and quizzes were organized, with over 100 participants from various schools. Prizes were awarded to students for their impactful performances.
GSSS Baldeyan emerged victorious in the Skit competition, followed by GSSS Summer Hill and GSSS Boileauganj in second and third place, respectively. Divya Kashyap from Baldeyan claimed the top spot in the Slogan competition, with Harsh Bhatti from Phagli and Mehak from Summerhill school securing second and third place.
In the same event, Kalpana from Summer Hill school secured the first position, while Priya from Boileauganj and Chhavi from Phagli school secured second and third place, respectively. The Quiz competition was dominated by GSSS Baldeyan, while GSSS Phagli and GSSS Boileauganj shared the second position, and GSSS Beulia secured third place.
The event took place amidst the natural beauty of the arboretum, providing a fitting setting for World Environment Day.
Sh. Srinivas Joshi, an octogenarian, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. He shared valuable insights on environmental changes in Shimla and emphasized the need for practical action in protecting the environment. Joshi urged the students not to rely solely on grand slogans but to ensure that the public actively supports environmental conservation efforts.
Dr. Joginder Chauhan, Kulwant Rai, Gulshan, Swaraj Singh, Nisha Bhaluni, and around 200 individuals, including students, were present at the event.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Mission Life campaign and ongoing efforts to protect the environment.
