UDHAMPUR: The Udhampur Campus of the University of Jammu, in collaboration with the J&K Science Technology & Innovation Council, Department of Science & Technology, Udhampur, organized a thought-provoking debate competition at Government High School, Garnai Lotta. Centered on the theme “Is the Traditional Way of Environmental Conservation Sufficient to Meet the Needs of an Environmental Crisis?” the event aimed to enhance environmental sustainability and encourage innovative practices for addressing critical environmental issues.
This event was envisioned by Vice Chancellor Prof. Umesh Rai, with special thanks extended to him and Rector Prof. Yash Pal Sharma and Shruti Khanna, District Coordinator, Department of science and technology for their support in organizing such impactful events. The principal of the school, Rohini Gupta, welcomed attendees and expressed gratitude to the J&K Science Technology & Innovation Council, Department of Science & Technology, and the Rector of Udhampur Campus, University of Jammu, for their involvement in organizing the event.
The event was graced by Dr. Pankaj Sharma, Head of the Department of English at Government Degree College Ramnagar, who served as the chief guest. He emphasized the importance of innovation in tackling pressing environmental challenges. Students from Government High School Garnai Lotta actively participated, showcasing their skills in articulating arguments and engaging in constructive dialogue.
Participants presented diverse perspectives, debating the effectiveness of traditional conservation methods amidst escalating environmental changes. Some argued for the value of time-honored practices, while others advocated for the integration of modern techniques and scientific advancements. The competition fostered a vibrant exchange of ideas, with the audience encouraged to engage and reflect on their own views regarding environmental stewardship.
In an exciting conclusion, students from the school showcased a lively dance performance. The competition was judged by Dr. Pankaj Sharma, who announced the winners: Miss Riya from class 9th secured first prize.
In her remarks, Taruna Dubey expressed gratitude to the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jammu and the Rector of Udhampur Campus, Coordinator JKSTIC, Udhampur for supporting such awareness initiatives. She also thanked the school, campus teaching and non-teaching staff, as well as the students and participants for their contributions to the success of the event. Later, in his virtual address, Prof. Yash Pal Sharma, Rector of Udhampur Campus, highlighted the importance of raising awareness among locals and the necessity for collaborative efforts in addressing the environmental crisis.
The event was coordinated and hosted by Taruna Dubey, with support from Dr. Ritika Sambyal, Dr. Kamini Dutta, Nikhil Khajuria, and Dr. Sunita Kumari, faculty members from Udhampur Campus. This competition marks another significant step by Udhampur Campus to promote awareness and action on crucial environmental issues, encouraging future generations to think critically and innovate for a healthier planet.
