Shrine Board organizes Drawing Competition to commemorate World Environment Day

KATRA: To commemorate World Environment Day, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) organized a special drawing and sketching competition at its high-tech nursery in village Kunya, Panthal, near Katra. The event, which saw enthusiastic participation from a large number of students of various age groups, focused on the theme "Ending Plastic Pollution Globally".

The competition aimed to raise awareness about the pressing issue of plastic pollution and encourage young minds to think creatively about solutions. Students from classes 1 to 12 from various institutions in the surroundings of Katra area showcased their artistic talents, highlighting the importance of reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable practices. The competition was held from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, providing a platform for young artists to express their thoughts and ideas on environmental conservation.

Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB expressed delight at the students participation and the quality of artwork displayed, saying it was heartening to see students of various age groups engaging deeply with critical environmental issues. He also highlighted the Board's commitment to environmental conservation under the directions and guidance of Shri Manoj Sinha, Hon’ble Chairman, SMVDSB (Lt. Governor, JK-UT), citing the Annual Green Plan of the Board, under which over 1.7 million plants have been planted so far through manual intervention with a survival rate of over 80%. These plants are meticulously reared in the Board's high-tech nursery, showcasing the organization's dedication to preserving nature and maintaining ecological balance in the region, he added.

The CEO further highlighted the Shrine Board's innovative approach to afforestation, citing the successful initiation of drone-based efforts last year, which have shown promising results. Under this initiative, the Forest Wing has covered approximately 109 hectares of degraded land in the Trikuta Hills. Additionally, the Board undertakes extensive greening efforts, planting over 1.5 lakh seedlings annually on Trikuta Hills and along the tracks leading to the shrine to promote soil and water conservation. The Board also distributes plants as souvenirs to devotees through its plant sale counter in Katra, in line with the Prime Minister's "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" campaign, promoting environmental awareness and conservation.

The CEO congratulated all the participants for their creative efforts and encouraged them to continue spreading awareness about environmental issues. The winners of the competition were awarded prizes in their respective categories.

Also present on the occasion were Additional Chief Executive Officer, Dy. Chief Executive Officer, FA/ Chief Accounts Officer, Asstt. Chief Executive Officer, Assistant Conservator of Forest, teachers and students from various institutions surrounding Katra, along with officers and officials from the Shrine Board.