ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil & Water Conservation, Research Centre, Udhagamandalam

In commemoration of World Environment Day 2024 with the theme, the ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation (IISWC), Research Centre, Udhagamandalam, organized a "Native Tree Plantation Drive and Awareness Programme" on June 5, 2024. The event took place at the centre’s research farm campus and aimed to foster environmental awareness and promote the conservation of native shola tree species. The campaign was inaugurated by Dr. Somasundaram Jayaraman, Head and Principal Scientist, ICAR-IISWC, RC, Ooty. In his inaugural speech, he highlighted the relevance of World Environment Day celebrations and the institute’s vital role in reducing soil erosion and restoring degraded through sustainable soil management practices. He emphasized the increasing frequency of extreme weather events and the urgent need for concerted action to restore degraded lands, combat desertification, and enhance resilience to droughts. During the program, Dr. H.C. Hombe Gowda, Senior Scientist (Forestry) briefed the participants about the initiative and provided additional insights on the need for nature conservation to preserve the environment for future generations. After that, the scientists, technical, administrative, and farm staff of the centre, along with the in-plant training students (a total of 50 participants), proceeded to plant shola tree seedlings in the research farm area. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from all involved. The program was coordinated by Dr. H.C. Hombe Gowda, Senior Scientist (Forestry), and Dr. Renjith P.S., Scientist (Agronomy), under the guidance of Dr. Somasundaram Jayaraman, Head of the Centre. The event not only celebrated World Environment Day but also reinforced our collective responsibility to commit to a sustainable and resilient planet.

ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil & Water Conservation, Research Centre, Vasad

The ICAR-IISWC, Research centre, Vasad Celebrated World Environment Day in collaboration with Brahma Kumaris Meditation Centre, Vasad at Research Farm of the centre on 05/06/2024. Hon. BK Deepaben and BK Preetiben from Meditation Centre participated in the event. Shri Anand Kumar formally welcomed the guests and head of the centre. Dr. D. Dinesh explained the background of environment day and this year’s theme “Land restoration, desertification, and drought resistance”. The trainee students, technical staff, administrative staff and scientists of the centre highlighted importance of conservation of environment under climate change scenario. All felt that there is need to save mother earth from overexploitation and pollution. They expressed concerns about decreasing per capita availability of land and water, soil degradation, water pollution and decreasing air quality in major cities and rural areas. They urged that tree plantation is solution for all ills. Hon. BK Deepaben from Brahma Kumaris Meditation Centre, Vasad expressed that there is a need to change the attitude towards environmental wellness. It will start from our thought process. The individuals and society as whole have to have pure intentions for conservation of environment for saving human race. It could be achieved through positive commitments, achievable targets, awareness campaigns, adoption of environment friendly life style and judicious use of natural resources. Hon. BK Preetiben conducted Earth wellness Guided meditation for all participants. Her impactful words deeply resonated with the audience, motivating them to actively contribute to the preservation of our planet's future. Dr. M. J. Kaledhonkar, Head of the Centre, addressed the audience and urged them not to use single use plastic and to adopt energy saving techniques, solar power and sensible use of water in routine life. He also emphasized to go for natural or organic food consumption for healthy lifestyle. Dr. Nandha Kumar, Scientist (Fruit science) proposed vote of thanks of the programme. Plantation drive was also organised for all staff members and about 100 samplings of Bamboo were planted as bio-fence in the Research farm. The institute scientists, technical staff, administrative staff, supporting staff, trainee students and contractual staff also participated in the event. Dr. D Dinesh Senior Scientist (Soil Science), coordinated event.