Law School, University of Jammu hosts ‘Tree Talk’ to champion rights of nature and ecological citizenship

JAMMU: In alignment with the constitutional mandate that enshrines the duty of the state and citizens to protect and improve the natural environment, The Law School, University of Jammu, in collaboration with NSS Campus Unit 3, organized an ecologically immersive program titled "Tree Talk." The event featured Shri O.P. Sharma, Retired Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, J&K Government, who underscored the intrinsic value of nature beyond anthropocentric utility, emphasizing an ecocentric perspective where ecosystems and biodiversity hold rights independent of human interests.

Shri O.P. Sharma illuminated the deep ecological and cultural interconnectedness of native trees, particularly Palash (Butea monosperma) and Kantak Palash (Bauhinia variegata), weaving together their ecological functions, mythological significance, and medicinal virtues. His discourse reinforced the rights-of-nature philosophy, advocating for legal and societal recognition of forests and flora as living entities deserving protection under constitutional and environmental jurisprudence.

The program commenced with an introductory address by Prof. Seema Rohmetra, Director of The Law School, who highlighted the institution’s commitment to environmental justice and sustainable jurisprudence. She emphasized that this initiative served as a critical platform to reorient the students toward ecological citizenship, fostering a sense of intergenerational equity and ecocentric responsibility as mandated by the Indian Constitution and global environmental ethics. Dr. Monika Bhardwaj adeptly moderated the session, while Dr. Mrinalini Atrey, Program Coordinator, delivered the vote of thanks, reiterating the role of academia in advancing ecocentric governance.