Ganderbal, June 5: School of Life Sciences, comprising departments of Botany, Zoology, Biotechnology, Chemistry and Civil Engineering, Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) observed World Environment Day 2026 at its Tulmulla campus on the theme “Inspired By Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.”
The event featured speakers who emphasized the need for sustainable lifestyles, climate action, and integrating ecological awareness into education and policy.
In his presidential address, Vice Chancellor Prof. A. Ravinder Nath said nature is one of humanity’s greatest teachers and stressed that environmental education begins with close observation of the natural world. He highlighted the interdependence of the lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere and called for maintaining ecological balance for future generations.
He observed that environmental degradation is largely human-induced and underlined that clean air, pure water, and fertile soil are essential for a healthy ecosystem.
Chief Guest and Vice Chancellor of Central University of Punjab, Prof. Raghavendra P. Tiwari, said India’s civilizational ethos has long respected nature, but modern crises stem from consumerism and excessive materialism. He warned against unsustainable consumption patterns and called for innovation in recycling, sustainable agriculture, rainwater harvesting, and waste management. He stressed that universities must act as hubs of environmental innovation.
Former Vice Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Kakinada, Prof. K.V.S.G. Murali Krishna, said environmental respect must become a way of life rather than a ceremonial observance. He urged students to treat nature as an extension of family and emphasized biodiversity conservation and sustainable living.
Dean Academic Affairs Prof. Shahid Rasool, Registrar Dr. Nisar Ahmad Mir, Deans, Heads of Departments, faculty members and senior officials were present.
Dean, School of Life Sciences Prof. Abid Hamid Dar highlighted World Environment Day as an opportunity for reflection and collective action, noting that environmental challenges also have social and psychological dimensions.
Sr. Asst Prof. Dr. Lateef Khaliq administered the World Environment Day pledge. Students Mudabbir Ahmad and Sheefan Riyaz conducted proceedings, while Associate Prof. Dr. Dharmendra Singh delivered the vote of thanks.
