On the occasion of World Environment Day 2025, the Uttarakhand State Council for Science and Technology (UCOST), in collaboration with the Himalayan Academy of Science and Technology (HAST) and the Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board (UKPCB), organized a day-long programme focused on environmental education and Himalayan ecological awareness. The event was held at the Regional Science Centre, Vigyan Dham, Jhajra. The central theme of the programme was: “Himalayo Naam Nagadhiraj – Dedication to Himalayan Knowledge and Environment for the Future of Mankind.”
The programme began with a welcome address by Dr. Reema Pant, educator and environmentalist, who outlined the agenda for the day. She highlighted that environmental education is not just a subject but a vital life skill, stressing the need for personal accountability and a conscious reduction in plastic use to support sustainable living. She also noted that the day marked one year since the establishment of the Himalayan Academy of Science and Technology (HAST), making the occasion even more significant in the context of environmental commitment and knowledge-sharing.
Prof. Durgesh Pant, Director General, UCOST, urged the audience to minimize the use of plastic and highlighted the Council’s environmental conservation initiatives such as “Maa Dhara Ko Naman” and the Tons River Rejuvenation Programme.
Dr. G.S. Rawat, President of HAST, emphasized the active involvement of youth in strengthening environmental education in the Himalayan region. A panel discussion was conducted during the event, featuring eminent environmentalists and scholars including Prof. G.S. Rajwar, Prof. R.C. Sharma, Prof. Reema Pant, Prof. Anand Sharma, and Dr. Suneet Naithani of Doon University. The discussion focused on advancing environmental literacy through scientific, cultural, and grassroots approaches.
Prof. Anand Sharma, President of the Indian Meteorological Society, spoke about the need for a holistic view of environmental issues, emphasizing the interconnectedness of ecological factors. Dr. Suneet Naithani stressed the value of traditional knowledge systems in shaping environmental consciousness.
Dr. D.P. Uniyal, Joint Director, UCOST, highlighted the importance of science communication and intellectual property rights in the context of environmental education.
Serving as the Chief Guest, Dr. Geeta Khanna, Chairperson of the Uttarakhand State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, emphasized the need to promote STEM education. She proposed the launch of an E-waste collection campaign at the school level to foster environmental responsibility among children.
Shri Shankar Korankar, State Minister and Vice President of Jalagam, also addressed the gathering, stressing that environmental awareness and waste management are among the most pressing priorities of our time.
The event featured various competitions and idea presentation activities for students, aimed at fostering innovation and critical thinking. A special brainstorming session was also conducted, focusing on environmental strategies for the well-being of future generations.
The programme was successfully coordinated by Dr. Piyush Joshi, Senior Scientific Officer, and Ms. Jagriti Uniyal, Scientific Officer, UCOST.
Over 200 students from various schools and colleges participated enthusiastically in the programme.
