On the occasion of World Environment Day, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha addressed a pivotal conference titled “Our Land, Our Future” at Sazgaripora, Srinagar. Organised by the Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation (NLCO), the event brought together a diverse array of participants including government officials, social activists, volunteers, and youth, all dedicated to the cause of environmental conservation. In his address, the Lt Governor Shri Manoj Sinha highlighted the critical need for land restoration to tackle the pressing challenges of land degradation, drought, and desertification. Emphasizing the administration’s commitment to the vision of ‘Environment First’, LG Sinha underscored the significance of reviving damaged ecosystems to enhance livelihoods, ensure food security, and mitigate extreme weather events. “Our collective efforts to reverse the degradation of ecosystems will not only restore natural habitats but also play a crucial role in boosting livelihoods and food security,” stated LG Sinha. “These efforts are essential to preventing extreme weather situations and fostering a sustainable environment.” He called upon various stakeholders including NGOs, financial institutions, business organizations, volunteers, and civil society members to act as ‘Agents of Change’. He urged them to dedicate themselves to the cause of ecological preservation and restoration. He stressed that pollution prevention, increasing green cover, and the conservation of natural resources should be common goals for everyone. Reiterating the UT Administration’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable living, the Lt Governor detailed several government initiatives aimed at protecting and preserving the rich biodiversity of Jammu and Kashmir. He set forth two crucial goals for citizens: to eliminate the use of single-use plastics and to strengthen the Waste Management System. Additionally, he appealed to rural communities to identify and undertake projects that can help restore ecosystems and prevent land degradation in their villages. The conference also highlighted the commendable efforts of the Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation in transforming the Gilsar-Khushalsar waterbody. LG Sinha assured the organization of full support from the administration in its ongoing and future endeavors. An environment protection pledge was administered to attendees, reinforcing the collective commitment to the cause. This year’s World Environment Day theme focused on Land Degradation, Desertification, and Drought resilience, underscoring the urgency and global significance of these issues. The event saw participation from several key officials including Ms. Mandeep Kaur, Commissioner Secretary of the Housing & Urban Development Department; Sh. Vijay Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir; Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, Deputy Commissioner of Srinagar; Dr. Bashir Ahmad Bhat, Vice Chancellor of LCMA; and Sh. Manzoor Wangnoo, Chairman of the Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation. Their presence and active participation signified a unified approach towards achieving the goals of environmental conservation and sustainable development. The Lt Governor’s address and the ensuing discussions at the conference highlighted the pressing need for immediate and concerted efforts to restore land and protect the environment. By fostering a collective responsibility and commitment towards ecological preservation, the event aimed to pave the way for a sustainable and resilient future.
