Forest Dept engages communities to mark World Environment Day in North Kashmir

Srinagar: The Forest Department in North Kashmir today announced the successful conclusion of its widespread and inclusive World Environment Day 2025 celebrations, observed across various forest divisions of North Kashmir with enthusiastic participation from schools, colleges, and local communities.

Aligned with the global theme of “Beat Plastic Pollution,” the department organized a diverse range of activities aimed at fostering environmental consciousness , beating out plastic pollution and promoting sustainable practices.

The celebrations, which commenced in the last week of May and culminated on June 5th, saw unprecedented engagement from educational institutions and communities.Thousands of students ,faculty members and local communities actively participated in various initiatives designed to highlight the pressing issue of plastic pollution and the urgent need for its eradication.

Key highlights of the World Environment Day 2025 celebrations across Forest Divisions included ceremonial Plantation Drives organized in collaboration with schools and colleges, where students planted saplings in educational campuses. Environment Awareness Rallies and Marches were also organised in which both Students, local citizens and forest officials took to the streets in various towns including Sopore,Handwara, Baramulla and Kupwara , Uri,Karnah holding banners and placards with messages on “Beat plastic pollution”.

Various Art and painting Competitions were organised in various schools including Valley school, SRM Welkin School. GD Goenka school etc across twin districts of Kupwara and Baramulla to raise awareness about recycling of plastic waste and reducing plastic use. It also gave a platform to students to showcase their creative talent as well.

Dedicated clean-up drives were undertaken in forest areas of Kehmil, Langate, Kamraj and JV Forest Divisions of North Forest Circle under mentorship of Divisional Forest Officers(DFOs) with active participation from Range officers,Foresters, Forest Guards, students and various Environment groups.

Students and faculty members across all participating institutions took a solemn pledge to “Beat Plastic Pollution” and adopt eco-friendly lifestyles, committing to reduce their plastic footprint and advocate for a cleaner environment.
Informative documentaries and presentations on environmental conservation, biodiversity, and the perils of plastic pollution were screened, providing valuable insights and encouraging critical thinking among young minds.

Speaking on the occasion, Conservator of Forests, North Kashmir ,Sh Irfan Ali Shah(IFS) stated, “World Environment Day 2025 has been a resounding success in North Kashmir.The overwhelming response from schools, colleges, and the local communities demonstrates a growing awareness and commitment towards environmental protection. Our focus on ‘Beat Plastic Pollution’ this year has been particularly impactful, as we educated our future generations on the critical need to address this global challenge.”

He further added “The Forest Department extends its gratitude to the District Administration in Baramulla and Kupwara ,all the participating schools, colleges, local administrations, NGOs, and community members for their invaluable support and active involvement, which made these celebrations truly meaningful. The department reiterates its commitment to continue working towards a greener and more sustainable future for Jammu and Kashmir”