Pics: Ramesh Pandith
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (JD)
Mangaluru, Apr 22: Scores of youngsters were engaged in a variety of activities on Friday April 22, organized with a view to create awareness on environment conservation and bring them closer to nature.
The event was 'Vishwa Bhoomi Dina', or Earth Day Mangaluru 2016, organized by Anti Pollution Drive Foundation in association with Pana Pre-University College amidst the serene premises of the College.
Trustee of Shasthavu Sri Bhoothanatheshwara Temple Vijaynath Vittal Shetty inaugurated the event by unveiling an awareness banner and planting a sapling along with other dignitaries on the dais.
In his address, he stressed on the need to inculcate awareness on the need to conserve the environment especially among younsters.
"As today's children are tomorrow's citizens, we need to make them aware of the need to conserve the environment and mother earth. They must also be taught not to throw waste anywhere except in dustbins. The main thing we need focus on is plastic waste. Children also must tell their mothers to use non-plastic bags when they buy grocery from the market.
"I feel even the government must work to reduce pollution by issuing strict regulations for vehicles. If this happens we can reduce pollution to a greater extent," he opined.
Chief operating officer of Pana Education Usha Rao in her keynote address said, "From next academic year, students of this College will plough the land and grow grains. Through this, they will learn valuable lessons.
"In a few years, this College will be self-reliant through solar power. As we need to conserve our resources and environment, our students will create awareness on the need to preserve the flora and fauna. The students will also prepare a breeding source for fish in the pond next to the College in the coming days," she said.
Vice-president of Pana Education Shyam Shetty, dean Ramadas Arya and others were present.
Various competitions were also organised for children of various schools on the occasion on the theme how to conserve the earth. Events like quiz, elocution, painting, singing and mud Kabaddi competitions for students from 6th to 10th standard saw scores of children participating with much enthusiasm.
Awareness workshops on air pollution, solid waste management and water conservation were also held as part of the event. The associate activities included green campus tour, painting-a-mural, idea board, film screening, 'Earth Day Pledge' and launching of good air campaign.
The event was held in partnership with Earth Day Network, Washington, USA, which is the international coordinating agency for all Earth Day events worldwide.