IUST and Department of Ecology, Environment & Remote Sensing Celebrate World Environment Day

AWANTIPORA: The Department of Environment, Sustainability and Climate Change, Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), in collaboration with the Department of Ecology, Environment and Remote Sensing (DEERS), Government of Jammu & Kashmir, organized the World Environment Day 2025 celebrations at Nund Reshi Auditorium, Islamic University of Science and Technology.

The event commenced with guard of Honour by the contingent of Forest Protection Force followed by ceremonial tree planting and interaction of the Chief Guest Shri Suresh Gupta with winners of the painting competition.

The event commenced with Isband Ceremony, followed by ‘Mission LiFE’ pledge led by Dr. Asifa Baba, Dean of Students, IUST, where participants committed to adopting environmentally conscious habits and encouraging others to do the same. Shri Rakesh Kumar, Director, Ecology, Environment and Remote Sensing, while formally welcoming the guests, emphasized that government efforts can only succeed when communities actively participate in environmental protection.

The Islamic University of Science & Technology was represented by Prof. A. H. Moon, Dean Academics, and Prof. Abdul Wahid Maqdoomi, Registrar, IUST. Prof. Moon highlighted the vital role of academic institutions in addressing plastic pollution. He highlighted the IUSTs initiatives in achieving green economy in the campus through establishment of a solar park, water harvesting structures use of waste water for irrigation and other initiatives

Mr. Suneesh Buxy, Managing Director, JKFDCL spoke about the devastating impact of plastic on aquatic and human life. “Mission LiFE is about aligning our lifestyle with the well-being of the environment,” he stressed, calling for mindful consumption and resource conservation. Shri Vasu Yadav, IFS, Chairman, J&K Pollution Control Committee acknowledged the indispensable uses of plastic in sectors like medicine but stressed the importance of responsible use and scientific waste segregation, especially at the household level. Echoing the urgency of the climate crisis, Shri Sarvesh Rai, IFS Chief Wildlife Warden & Director Forest Protection Force emphasised the importance and relevance of eco-friendly life style in present times to harmonize with nature.

Mr.  Suresh Kumar Gupta, IFS, Chief Guest urged students to spread awareness and practice environmental ethics. He stressed that every individual has a role in making the Earth a clean, green, and happy place.

The program also featured a skit by IUST Cultural Committee and the release of a short film focusing on plastic pollution in Jammu and Kashmir, aligned with the Beat Plastic Pollution theme. Additionally, technical reports on geospatial monitoring of Wullar Lake and rainwater harvesting (RWH) structures for Srinagar and Bandipora districts were released.

Student winners of painting and debate competitions, conducted across various educational institutions in Kashmir valley over the past month, were felicitated during the ceremony. The active role played by Municipal Committee, Awantipora and Tral in cleaning drives conducted by IUST and other stakeholders was also appreciated during the event. The event was attended by prominent officials and faculty members of IUST and officers of various wings of the Forest Ecology & Environment Department. The dignitaries also visited the Business Festival organized by the MBA students of the University.