GANDERBAL: To observe the World Environment Day, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) in collaboration with the ActionAid Association (India), organised a programme on “Land Degradation, Desertification, and Drought Resilience,” under the campaign “Uniting to Save Our Planet Earth,” at Tulmulla campus here Wednesday.
Addressing the participants, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath, underscored the need to address the environmental challenges posed by land degradation, desertification, and greenhouse gas emissions. “By committing to sustainable practices and policies, we can create a healthier, more resilient environment for ourselves and future generations,” Prof. A Ravinder Nath, said in his presidential address. He said that unsustainable agricultural practices, deforestation, and urbanization are leading to soil erosion, loss of fertile land, and a decline in ecosystem health. “Immediate action is essential to restore degraded lands, promote sustainable land management, and protect our natural resources,” he further said.
Dean School of Physical and Chemical Sciences, Prof. Muhammad Yousuf, faculty members, research scholars and students were also present. Speaking on the occasion, noted environmentalist and columnist, Capt. Dr. B. Madhusudan Reddy, talked about environmental degradation leading to massive floods in rural and urban areas. He discussed the very basis of climate change, restoration of wetlands and the future perspective. Capt. Dr. B. Madhusudan, highlighted the indiscriminate use of pesticides and fertilizers which have direct impact and bearing on the environment and human health.
Executive Director, Actionaid Association, Mr. Sandeep Chachra, talked about Himalayan Diversity, Domains of Ecology, Glacial recessions and fragility of ecosystem. He discussed the impact of climate change on the human population and called for cooperation among different stakeholders, social organizations, academic institutions, to educate people about the adverse effects of growing environmental pollution and subsequent climate change.
Dean SoLS and Head, Department of Biotechnology, Prof. Abid Hamid, in his address called for restoration of wetlands, reducing pollution and minimizing the use of plastics. Prof. Abid said the consequences of the desertification are devastating: reduced agricultural productivity, increased poverty, and forced migration. “By implementing strategies such as reforestation, soil conservation, and water management, we can combat desertification and build resilient communities,” he added.
Earlier, Prof. Azra N. Kamili, Co-Convenor of the event, highlighted the role of masses in addressing the environmental issues and said the coordinated efforts from all the sections of the society was needed to check the ever increasing environmental degradation. She further informed the participants about different environmental policies adopted at National and International levels.
Project Lead, Actionaid Association, and co-organising secretary, Ms. Nadiya Habib, in her address summarised the work of Actionaid Association India. She said that her organisation is working on Social and Economic Justice, empowering marginal groups, women rights and Girls Rights. She further said that in J&K Actionaid Association primarily focuses on Community Rights Advocacy, Livelihood rebuilding and Social Security Support.
Sr. Asst Prof. and organising secretary, Dr. Mohammad Latief Bhat, who administered a pledge among the participants, asking them to work for preservation of the environment. Ms. Mehak Fayaz conducted the proceedings of the inaugural session and Assistant Prof. Dr. Munazah Qureshi, proposed the vote of thanks.
Dr. Irshad Ahmad Ahanger, Assistant Prof. was the rapporteur: Thereafter, technical sessions were organised wherein experts discussed the urgent need to address the issues related to land degradation, desertification, and the adverse effects of greenhouse gases on the environment.