Srinagar, Mar 16: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) held a one-day workshop titled “Youth for Swachhta: Building a Cleaner and Greener Tomorrow” to sensitize and mobilize youth towards cleanliness, environmental protection, and the conservation of natural resources.
The NSS Unit of SKUAST-K’s Faculty of Horticulture organized the program in collaboration with the National Service Scheme Regional Directorate Delhi and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
The workshop comprised of two sessions. During the first session, an expert lecture was delivered by a resource person Dr Muzamil Ahmad Rafiqii, Superintending Engineer, J&K LCMA from the Lakes Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA), who highlighted the importance of environmental conservation, proper waste management, and the collective responsibility of citizens in protecting the fragile ecosystem of Kashmir’s water bodies.
In the second session, NSS volunteers carried out a cleanliness drive at Dal Lake, where participants actively cleaned the surroundings and spread awareness among locals and visitors about maintaining hygiene and preserving the natural beauty of the lake. NSS volunteers also carried out Campus Cleanliness drive in the Shalimar campus.
To further engage young minds, painting and slogan competitions on the theme of Swachhta and environmental conservation were also organized for NSS volunteers.
Prof Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension & Dean Faculty of Horticulture was the chief guest and Prof Azmat Alam Khan, Registrar SKUAST-K was the guest of honour.
Prof Kanth highlighted the importance of community service in shaping responsible citizen and said, “NSS activities not only promote environmental awareness but also instill leadership, teamwork, and a spirit of service among students. In his Address, Prof. Azmat Alam emphasized the crucial role of youth in environmental protection and stated, “The youth are the driving force behind sustainable change. By actively participating in cleanliness and conservation initiatives, they can play a vital role in protecting our natural resources and ensuring a cleaner and greener future.”
Dean Students Welfare Prof SA Gangoo appreciated the efforts of the NSS Unit and remarked, “Educational institutions have a significant role in fostering environmental responsibility among students. Initiatives like this inspire young people to adopt sustainable practices and contribute meaningfully to society.”
Many Faculty members of the Shalimar Campus and more than 250 NSS volunteers attended the workshop and cleanliness drive.
