Srinagar, June 10: Environmental experts, engineers, academics and researchers on Wednesday stressed the need for stronger climate action, sustainable development policies and enhanced institutional cooperation to address growing ecological challenges during a seminar held in Srinagar to mark World Environment Day 2026.

The one-day seminar was organised by the Institution of Engineers (India), Jammu and Kashmir State Centre (IEI-JKSC), on the theme “A Global Call for Climate Action.” It brought together professionals, students, researchers and policymakers to discuss climate change, environmental degradation, biodiversity loss and sustainable resource management.
Speaking as chief guest, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice-Chancellor of the Islamic University of Science and Technology, emphasised the importance of evidence-based policymaking and stronger collaboration between academic institutions, professional bodies, government agencies and civil society to address environmental challenges. He also highlighted the need for developing resilient and sustainable solutions for climate adaptation and environmental protection.
Technical sessions featured presentations by former Jammu and Kashmir Pollution Control Board officer Er. Khurshid Ahmad Ganai, SSM College of Engineering faculty member Dr. Rayees Ahmad Khan, and former JKPDD Secretary (Technical) Er. Bashir Ahmad Dar. The speakers discussed the increasing impact of climate change in the region, along with issues related to pollution control, environmental regulations, renewable energy adoption and sustainable resource management.
Earlier, IEI-JKSC Honorary Secretary Er. Irfan Ahmad Reshi introduced the programme and highlighted the significance of World Environment Day, while Chairman Er. Ferdous Ahad Bhat spoke about global environmental concerns including climate change, biodiversity loss and unsustainable development practices.
Prof. Romshoo also appreciated the efforts of IEI-JKSC in promoting technical awareness and encouraging informed discussions on environmental issues.
The programme concluded with a felicitation ceremony for the chief guest and contributors, followed by a vote of thanks. Organisers said the seminar provided an important platform for dialogue on climate resilience, ecological conservation and the role of engineering and scientific innovation in building a sustainable future.