Kupwara, Jun 5 (JKNS): World Environment Day was observed with great enthusiasm and a strong message of environmental responsibility at Iqra Model Public School, Kandi, through a collaborative initiative of RoshanKal Welfare Foundation, the J&K Forest Department Karnah, and the school administration. The programme brought together students, teachers, community members, and distinguished guests in a meaningful celebration dedicated to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
The event featured a variety of activities aimed at promoting environmental awareness among young learners, including a Painting Competition, Speech Competition, Cleanliness Drive, and Plantation Drive. Students actively participated in these activities, demonstrating their creativity, knowledge, and commitment towards protecting the environment.
The programme was graced by Mohd Fareed, Principal, Government Higher Secondary School Kandi Karnah, who attended as the Chief Guest. In his address, he appreciated the efforts of RoshanKal Welfare Foundation, the Forest Department, and Iqra Model Public School for organizing such a significant programme and emphasized the importance of environmental education in shaping responsible future citizens.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Masarat Bano, Chairperson of Iqra Model Public School, highlighted the urgent need for environmental conservation and encouraged students to adopt eco-friendly practices in their daily lives. She stressed that protecting nature is a collective responsibility and urged the younger generation to play an active role in building a cleaner and greener future.
Representatives of the J&K Forest Department Karnah also participated in the programme and highlighted the importance of afforestation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable use of natural resources. They appreciated the efforts of students and organizers in promoting environmental awareness and encouraged everyone to contribute towards preserving the region’s natural heritage.
Students delivered thought-provoking speeches and displayed impressive artwork focusing on environmental protection, climate change, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable living. The cleanliness and plantation drives further reinforced the message of community participation and environmental stewardship.
The competitions were judged by Raja Khushal Khan, Teacher at Government Higher Secondary School Kandi, and Mohd Umer, Member of RoshanKal Welfare Foundation, who appreciated the creativity and awareness demonstrated by the participants.
The programme was attended by key members of RoshanKal Welfare Foundation, including Ms. Salma Saleem (Programme Manager & Field Coordinator), Ms. Anjum Saleem (Monitoring & Evaluation Officer), Ms. Snober Bashir (Social Welfare & Outreach Coordinator), and Mr. Waqar Hussain Shah (Event & Logistics Coordinator), who played an active role in organizing and coordinating the event.
To encourage and recognize student participation, prizes and certificates were distributed among the winners of various competitions. The Foundation also announced that special gifts would be presented to all participating students as a token of appreciation for their enthusiastic involvement and commitment to environmental causes.
On the occasion, Ms. Masarat Bano was felicitated by RoshanKal Welfare Foundation in recognition of her dedicated service to education and her wholehearted support in making the programme a grand success.
Addressing the media, Dr. A. R. Lone, Executive Director & Finance Director of RoshanKal Welfare Foundation, expressed gratitude to the management, staff, students, guests, and the J&K Forest Department Karnah for their valuable contributions. He highlighted that RoshanKal Welfare Foundation is a registered organization with NITI Aayog Darpan, e-Anudan, 12A, 80G, and the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, and remains committed to serving society through impactful educational, environmental, and social welfare initiatives.
Dr. Lone further stated that the Foundation, in collaboration with government departments, civil society organizations, and local stakeholders, plans to organize many more programmes focusing on education, environmental sustainability, youth empowerment, and community welfare in the coming months. He reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to contributing towards the overall development of Karnah and promoting a positive and progressive identity for the region.
The programme concluded with a collective pledge by students, teachers, and participants to protect nature, reduce pollution, and work towards building a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future. The event served as an inspiring platform for environmental education, community engagement, and collective action, leaving a lasting impact on all those present. (JKNS)
