District Administration Bandipora, in collaboration with 109 Infantry Brigade, Dawar, Gurez, on Thursday, celebrated World Environment Day with great enthusiasm at Dawar, Gurez. The event began with plantation drive and awareness rally which were spearheaded by Deputy Commissioner, Bandipora, Shakeel ur Rehman and Commander, 109, Inf Bgd, Dawar and attended by large number of students, youth, prominent locals, civil, police and army officials.
The event was marked by organizing plantation drives, cleanliness drives, awareness programmes, and eco-friendly practices besides other activities. On the occasion, the DC held an interactive session with students and emphasized the importance of the ecosystem of its different aspects.
The DC, while interacting with students, said that on World Environment Day 2024, we unite to reaffirm our dedication to safeguarding the abundant biodiversity and natural assets of our planet. The DC said that this year's theme, 'Land Restoration, Desertification and Drought Resilience,' under the slogan 'Our land Our future,' emphasizes that we have the ability to restore the Earth by reconsidering our connection with nature and implementing decisive measures to counter environmental decline.
He said that even our tiniest actions can spark monumental changes, and our combined efforts today will mould the future world. He also stressed minimizing plastic waste and preserving water to adopt renewable energy and safeguarding endangered species, every individual has a part to contribute to this worldwide endeavor.
During the event, the DC, along with the participants, made a solemn pledge to adopt eco-friendly practices in their daily lives. They committed to raise environmental consciousness within their own communities, aiming to motivate others to participate in the endeavors of conserving and safeguarding the environment.
On the occasion, Brigadier Uday Samyal, Cdr 109 Inf Bde also gave a thought-provoking speech on the undeniable significance of the environment in supporting life on Earth. He also appreciated the active role and participation of the Army, Police, students, and district administration in organising these awareness campaigns.
Amplifying the enthusiasm of the day, an awareness rally was carried out to spread awareness about the significance of preserving the trees and nurturing nature. The event was attended by Brigadier Uday Samyal, Cdr 109 Inf Bde, Col MS Kumar, CO 3 J&K NCC Bn, Col Madhab Boro, SDM Gurez, Adm Offr J&K NCC Bn, Col Adwait Patil, CO 2/3 GR, Lt Col Vikas Chander, Edn Offr 109 Inf Bde, SDPO, Tehsildar, Executive Engineer, BDO, Forest Ranger, ZEO.
The event also witnessed active participation from community members, students, officials, Ex- Servicemen, and locals.