Srinagar — The Environmental Policy Group (EPG), in collaboration with Bluebells School, successfully hosted a one-day seminar at Khanyar to observe Earth Day and promote awareness about climate change, sustainable development, and environmental conservation.
The seminar began with participant registration, followed by recitation and Naat-i-Shareef. Faiz Bakshi, Convenor of EPG, delivered the welcome address, felicitating the Chief Guest, Mr. Vijay Kumar Bidhuri (IAS), Divisional Commissioner Kashmir. Bakshi emphasised the importance of collective efforts in protecting the environment, stating, “Earth Day reminds us that the health of our planet is intricately linked to the health of our communities and future generations. It is our collective responsibility to adopt sustainable practices and advocate for policies that protect our environment. Together, through awareness and action, we can pave the way for a greener, healthier future.”EPG Convenor announced that EPG has finalised environmental awareness events in collaboration with educational institutions at Sopore, Baramulla , Anantnag , Pulwama , Shopian , Budgam in coming days. During the technical sessions, several distinguished speakers shared their expertise. Mr. Altaf Ahmad Andrabi, former Director of Agriculture, spoke on the impact of climate change on agriculture. Mr. Imad Ul Riyaz, International climate and sustainability expert, discussed India’s path to net-zero emissions, emphasizing the roles of youth, jobs, and investments. Dr. G.N. Qasba, former Srinagar Municipal Commissioner, highlighted challenges and solutions related to solid waste management.Students from Bluebells School & members of PoloGround Football Academy also contributed meaningfully, with presentations on Earth Day themes by Zaira Khursheed and Rouh Ullah, Shanya Khadija followed by a poem recited by Jaza Fatima, inspiring the attendees with their dedication to environmental conservation.Further presentations included a short film on the role of media in environmental and an overview of the aquatic ecology of the River Jhelum and Wular Lake by Mr. Ajaz Rasool, Governing Council Member and Chairman of the Media Committee of Environmental Policy Group.The seminar featured addresses from distinguished guests; Mr. Zareef Ahmad Zareef, environmentalist; and Mr. Javaid Ahmed Tenga, President of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry.Mr. Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, the Chief Guest, in his captivating address urged urgent collective action to safeguard the environment for future generations. The highlight of the event was the presentation of mementos to the Chief Guest Mr. Vijay Kumar Biduri . The Chief Guest presented the Guests of Honour , Zareef Ahmad Zareef , a special momento in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the conservation of environment , protection of chinars and planting 62 documented traditional chinars in Kashmir valley during the last 40 years. Momentos were also presented  to the Guest of Honour , President KCCI Javed Ahmad Tenga : and panelists Er. Ajaz Rasool, Dr. G. N. Qasba , Altaf Ahmad Andrabi, Imad 𝐔𝐥 Riyaz, Environmental journalist Athar Parvaiz ; and Dr. Gazalla Hassan  , senior scientist J & K Pollution Control Committee. Dr. Tauseef Ahmad Bhat , Co- founder and Governing Council Member of Environmental Policy Group ( EOG) was presented a special momento in recognition of his outstanding contribution to environmental sustainability. Senior Journalist, Athar Parvaiz in an interesting interaction with curious students dealt upon the meaning and importance of Earth Day by emphasizing its role in raising global awareness about environmental issues. He connected it to the efforts of Greta Thunberg, the young climate activist who has inspired an international campaign demanding urgent action on climate change. The  prominent civil society members / environmental activists Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat , Peerzada Fayaz Ahmad ( EPG-GC member) Javed Ahmad Shah ( EPG) Fayaz Ahmad Punjabi ( Vice president KCCI), Zahoor Qari (Tourism leader ant environmentalist ) senior scientist Pollution ControlCommittee Dr. Gazalla Hassan, The Zonal Education officer Syed Sumaira Qari , representing Director of Education, Mr. Gowhar Geelani, columnist & Senior journalist attended the event.Mr. Shafaet Hussain, Chairman of Bluebells School, proposed a vote of thanks. This seminar reaffirmed the commitment of EPG , Bluebells School and students from participating educational institutions to fostering community awareness and proactive measures for sustainable environmental stewardship.The event was attended by hundreds of students from various universities, colleges, and schools. During the event, a pledge was taken to conserve the environment in every sphere of life.