On World Environment Day, the Himalayan Forest Research Institute in Shimla took the opportunity to emphasize the importance of environmental conservation.
Director Dr. Sandeep Sharma highlighted the need for adopting forest technology to ensure sustainable development. Addressing the event at the Western Himalayan Temperate Arboretum in Potter Hill, Summer Hill, Shimla, Dr. Sharma remarked, "This year’s theme, 'Our Land,' focuses on land restoration, desertification, and drought. We must address the degradation of soil health caused by chemicals and promote organic farming using bio-fertilizers."
Dr. Sharma encouraged students and participants to engage in tree planting and forest conservation.
He urged, "Students should contribute to forest conservation and spread awareness in society."
Shimla based author Raja Bhasin spoke about the increased risk of natural disasters due to forest fires, emphasizing the need for public awareness.
"Forests are burning everywhere, and it’s crucial to raise awareness about the consequences," he said. Bhasin called on everyone to fulfill their responsibilities towards environmental protection.
Forest Division Officer Mr. Shahnawaz stressed the importance of water and soil conservation and recommended eco-friendly practices.
Scientist Dr. Jagdish Singh elaborated on the goals of the environmental conservation mission, LIFE, while Dr. Vaneet Jishtu discussed the importance of green spaces in mitigating climate change.
Dr. Jishtu suggested that smart city projects must include green spaces to compensate for the reduced forest areas.
He mentioned, "Our institute has developed an arboretum in Potter Hill, Shimla, with 120 local plant species, providing a green space near the city."
The event saw participation from 90 students from Rajiv Gandhi Government College, Shimla, Government College, Sanjauli, and St. Bede’s College, Shimla. Competitions such as poster making, slogan writing, quizzes, and skit plays related to the environment were organized.
In the slogan writing contest, Kanika Sharma, Parul Thakur, and Arpita Vatsyan from Government College, Sanjauli, won first, second, and third places, respectively.
In the painting competition, Vaishali Sharma, Ayushi Jasrotia, and Arpita Vatsyan, also from Government College, Sanjauli, secured the top three positions.
The quiz competition saw Government College, Sanjauli, Rajiv Gandhi Government College, Shimla, and St. Bede’s College, Shimla, take first, second, and third places, respectively. In the skit competition, Government College, Sanjauli, St. Bede’s College, Shimla, and Rajiv Gandhi Government College, Shimla, won first, second, and third places, respectively.
The event concluded with Dr. Sharma distributing prizes to the winners.
