Media Release
Mangaluru, Jun 9: The centre for environmental concern, in association with the departments of zoology and botany, organized the World Environment Day 2026 celebration at Sanidhya Hall, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru on June 7 under the global theme 'Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future'. The programme was conducted in collaboration with the NCC Army Wing, Rotary Club of Mangalore Central, and Rotaract Club of Mangalore City.
The programme was presided over by Dr Melwyn D’Cunha, SJ, pro vice chancellor, while renowned environmentalist and afforestation expert Dr R K Nair, popularly known as the 'Green Hero of India', attended as the chief guest.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr R K Nair emphasized the urgent need for environmental conservation, biodiversity protection, and ecological restoration. He highlighted how degraded landscapes and barren lands can be transformed into thriving ecosystems through scientific afforestation practices.
A major focus of his address was 'Bharat Vann', an innovative afforestation model developed by him specifically for India's diverse climatic conditions, soil types, and geological settings. He explained that Bharat Vann promotes the creation of dense, self-sustaining forests using native plant species, making it a highly effective approach for restoring degraded ecosystems across the country. According to him, even small plots of land can be transformed into vibrant green spaces when planned scientifically.
Dr Nair stressed the importance of biodiversity, noting that forests comprising a variety of native species are far more beneficial than monoculture plantations. Such forests support a wide range of wildlife, including birds, insects, reptiles, and mammals, while strengthening ecosystem resilience and environmental health.
Sharing examples of successful restoration projects, he spoke about Smritivan in Kutch, Gujarat, developed in an area affected by the devastating 2001 Gujarat earthquake. Through extensive afforestation efforts, the once barren landscape was transformed into a thriving green ecosystem and today stands as a symbol of ecological restoration and resilience. He also outlined his future vision of restoring land that has remained barren for centuries by implementing scientifically designed afforestation projects tailored to local environmental conditions.
Throughout his address, Dr Nair reiterated that forests are much more than collections of trees—they are complex ecosystems that conserve biodiversity, improve air and water quality, regulate climate, and support life. He called upon students and citizens to actively participate in environmental conservation and restoration efforts.
Following the programme, Dr R K Nair planted a sapling on the university campus premises, symbolizing the institution's commitment to environmental stewardship and ecological restoration. The plantation activity reinforced the message of the day and highlighted the importance of collective action in creating a greener and more sustainable future.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, faculty members, NCC cadets, Rotarians, and environmental enthusiasts, reaffirming St Aloysius (Deemed to be University's) commitment to sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and responsible environmental action. Dr. Ronald Nazareth, registrar, St Aloysius Deemed to be University; Rtn Bhaskar Rao Katta, president, Rotary Club of Mangalore Central; Rtn PHF Darryl S D’Souza, RSMDIO president; Umanath Kotekar, secretary, Ambamaheshwari Seva Trust; Pushparaj BN, president, Dakshina Kannada Working Journalists' Association; Glavin Thomas Rodrigues, chief coordinator, Centre for Environmental Concern; and Dr Sana Sheikh, head, department of botany, were present on the occasion.