The Uttarakhand State Council for Science and Technology (UCOST), under its ongoing campaign “माँ धरा नमन”, celebrated World Earth Day 2025 with great enthusiasm at the Regional Science Centre (RSC), Dehradun, embracing this year’s global theme, “Our Power, Our Planet.”
The programme started with a Welcome Address and a brief introduction on the significance of Earth Day by Dr. D.P. Uniyal, Joint Director, UCOST, who emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in safeguarding the planet for future generations.
This was followed by the Inaugural Address delivered by Prof. Durgesh Pant, Director General, UCOST. He highlighted the role of science, technology, and community-driven efforts in fostering environmental stewardship, especially in ecologically sensitive regions like Uttarakhand.
PadmaShri Kalyan Singh Rawat spoke about the Maiti Movement, a grassroots campaign that has successfully combined environmental conservation with cultural traditions, particularly promoting tree plantations through community and marriage rituals.
Dr. M. Madhu, Director, ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation (ISWC), highlighted the nationwide network of soil departments and presented alarming data on soil erosion patterns during and after rains, both locally and globally. He urged the audience to conserve water and avoid food wastage, linking these habits directly to soil health and ecological balance.
An expert talk was presented by Dr. Bikram Singh, Director of the Meteorological Centre, IMD Dehradun, offering insights into the current climate challenges and the urgent need for sustainable action backed by scientific data and policies.
Dr. Shashi Shekhar Shrimali, Senior Scientist at IISWC, provided insights into the Drone Training and Certification Programme, highlighting its significance in promoting precision and water-efficient techniques in agriculture.
An open discussion session was also organized during the event, where topics such as climate change and solar energy were discussed. The dialogue focused on taking concrete steps towards a cleaner and greener planet.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. M.S. Rawat, Scientific Officer, UCOST, who appreciated the enthusiastic participation and reiterated UCOST’s mission to spread environmental consciousness through education, science, and innovation.
The event was hosted by Ms. Kanchan Dobhal, Scientific Officer, UCOST. The celebration brought together experts, scientists, and students to deliberate on environmental conservation and sustainability.
On this occasion, more than 250 students, faculty members, and representatives from various departments, along with officials and staff of UCOST, participated from institutions such as Maya Devi Institute, Subharti University, Alpine Institute, CIMS, Dolphin Institute, and Tulas Institute. Their active presence strongly reflected the youth’s commitment to environmental conservation.
