The Uttarakhand State Council for Science and Technology (UCOST) celebrated World Environment Day 2026 on 5 June 2026 under the theme “Inspired by Nature, For Climate, For Our Future.” The event brought together scientists, academicians, students and environmental enthusiasts to promote awareness and collective action towards environmental conservation and sustainable development.
The programme was inaugurated with the Lighting of the Lamp, followed by the National Song. Prof. Durgesh Pant, Director General, UCOST, informed the audience about various scientific and environmental initiatives being undertaken by UCOST across the state. He emphasized the importance of integrating science and nature to build a sustainable future and encouraged greater participation of youth in environmental conservation. The keynote lecture was delivered by Prof. R. C. Sundriyal, Vice Chancellor, Sparsh Himalaya University, Dehradun. In his insightful presentation, he discussed the Himalayan ecological system, livelihood challenges, natural resource management and inspiring examples of community participation in conserving natural resources across Himalayan states.
He said that “Harmony with nature is the foundation of sustainable development” and stressed the need for balancing development with ecological conservation. Dr. Nirpendra K. Chuahan, Director, Centre for Aromatic Plants, Dehradun, shared several success stories from the aromatic and medicinal plant sector. He encouraged young people to adopt scientific approaches in entrepreneurship and explore sustainable business opportunities based on natural resources. Dr. D. P. Uniyal, Joint Director, UCOST, highlighted the importance of Himalayan keystone species and shared inspiring stories of environmental conservation initiatives across the state.
He emphasized the need for collective efforts to protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. A presentation on UCOST’s “Maa Dhara Naman” Initiative was delivered by Dr. Bhavtosh Sharma, Scientist, UCOST, showcasing the Council’s efforts towards environmental conservation and community engagement. The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Dr. Piyush Joshi, Senior Scientific Officer, UCOST.
The programme was coordinated by Ms. Kanchan Uniyal, Scientific Officer, UCOST. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from more than 300 students representing Shivalik Institute, Uttaranchal University and various schools of Dehradun. Scientists, officials and staff members from UCOST, the Regional Science Centre and several other institutions were also present.
An interactive question-and-answer session between experts and students provided a valuable platform for discussing environmental challenges, climate change, biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. Participants also visited an exhibition showcasing UCOST’s initiatives, technologies and supported projects at the Regional Science Centre. The programme concluded with the National Anthem.
The program was followed by the plantation drive at UCOST Campus. The celebration concluded with a strong call for collective action, reinforcing that nature-based solutions, scientific innovation and community participation are indispensable for addressing climate challenges and building a resilient and sustainable future for generations to come.
