GUWAHATI, June 6 – World Environment Day was observed here today by both Government and non-government agencies highlighting this year’s theme- Many Species, One Planet, One Future.
In a function organized by the Forest Department, Assam Science Technology Environment Council and Pollution Control Board Assam, in the city, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi underlined the need to care for the natural environment and protect it from threats.
Referring to schemes undertaken by his government to help protect the environment, Gogoi said that the young generation should have adequate exposure to know about various aspects of biodiversity. He went on to say that a museum for children will be developed that would allow students to know about ecology, a facility where they could also carry out experiments.
The Chief Minister also gave away a number of prizes to talented children who excelled in a competition and to the best eco-club of Assam.
Noted academic Prof Arup Misra brought in focus this year’s theme and provided a lucid explanation about the need to protect the living planet, which sustained a variety of species.
The function also saw Gogoi inaugurate a teaching module developed by ASTEC that would aid teachers in higher secondary schools to promote environmental education. The new intervention has been described as the
flagship programme of ASTEC in the area of environmental action.
In another function, the Town Club carried out a plantation drive around the Judge’s Field where around 200 people took part. Nearly 150 saplings were planted by members of the club and the general public. The saplings will be maintained by the Forest Department and the Town Club, the general secretary of the club Devajit Saikia informed.
In the State Zoo, a quiz competition was organized where more than fifty participants took part.
Meanwhile, Help Earth, a society for the conservation of nature and biodiversity, organized a rally of students of South Point School. The event sought to draw attention to the condition of Deepor Beel, a Ramsar site that was facing serious threats to its existence. The programme was sponsored by South Point School Environment Club.
In a related development, Doordarshan Kendra Guwahati has launched a new programme on environmental matters today to mark World Environment Day. Produced by Bibhu Dutta, the series of programmes will include a number of resource persons who will dwell on a wide range of issues related to biodiversity, pollution, environmental action, among others.
