The initiative, undertaken by Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation (NLCO) and Bilaliya Educational Institute (BEI), witnessed the plantation of a large number of aromatic, medicinal, and herbal species, transforming the campus into a living laboratory of environmental learning and sustainability.

 

The occasion was graced by distinguished Guests of Honour including Dr. G. N. Itoo Sahib, Former DG Education and Director, Centre for Good Governance and Policy Analysis, IUST, Dr. Farooq Peer, Former Secretary JKBOSE, Mr. Farooq A. Gillani Sahib, Former Chief Conservator Forests, Dr. G. N. Qasba, Former Commissioner SMC, and Prof. Sajad Ahmad Gangoo, Dean Students Welfare, SKUAST Kashmir.

 

Among those present were Mr. Ghulam Mohiuddin, Chief Education Officer Srinagar, Mr. Gowhar Khursheed, School Education Department, Mr. Manzoor Ahmad, Project Officer LCMA, Ms Vandana Daftari, Regional Head Art of Living, Mr Abdul Rouf Khan, Incubation Manager (Startups & Innovations) SKUAST-K, Mr Ishrat Aslam, Enforcement Officer LCMA, Dr. Shahnawaz Ahmad Dar, University of Kashmir, Er. Abdul Rashid, Kashmir University, Mr. Lateef Ahmad, DFO SMC, Mr. Khurshid Ahmad Mahajan, PSAJK, Mr. Shamim Shah, TAFI, Mr. Burhan Misger, TAFI, Mr. Farooq Kuthoo, President TAAK, Mr. Khursheed Ahmad of Crescent Public School, Mr. Peerzada Faiyaz Ahmad, National Convenor RTSOI, Mr. Showkat Hussain, Educationist, Mr Adil Ahmad Project Officer Climate Reality , Dr. Sajad of Kashmir Agro, Mr. Syed Zubair Andrabi, Dr Lateif Ahmad Civil Society, Ms. Shafiya Riyaz GK, Mr. Gulzar Ahmad of MGL Higher Secondary School, media representatives, police officials, and students from BEI, Crescent Public School, and Tibetan Public School.

 

Large gathering of students participated in the programme, reflecting the growing enthusiasm among young people towards environmental conservation and sustainable living.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

 

Welcoming the gathering, Chairman NLCO and BEI, Mr. Manzoor Wangnoo, highlighted the practical and pragmatic approach adopted by NLCO and BEI in promoting environmental stewardship. He briefed the audience about the various environmental initiatives undertaken by NLCO, including Mission Ehsaas and the transformation of the Khimber campus into a green learning space. He thanked the Chief Guest, Guests of Honour, government departments, partner institutions, and students for their enthusiastic participation and support.

 

The distinguished speakers underscored the importance of environmental stewardship, biodiversity conservation, and community participation in addressing ecological challenges. They appreciated the sustained efforts of Mr. Manzoor Ahmad Wangnoo, NLCO, and Team BEI in promoting environmental awareness through practical action rather than symbolism.

 

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo emphasized the importance of nurturing innovation and scientific temperament among students. He stressed the effective implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 and observed that future generations must be equipped with creativity, innovation, and environmental consciousness to address emerging challenges. He also assured support for organising technical sessions on environmental stewardship for students of BEI.

 

The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks by the Principal of BEI, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, participants, departments, and volunteers for making the programme a success.

 

The proceedings were ably moderated by Mr. Peerzada Faiyaz Ahmad, National Convenor, Responsible Tourism Society of India (RTSOI).

 

The Herbal Park is expected to serve as a centre for environmental education, awareness, and research, while inspiring students to become ambassadors of sustainability and responsible citizenship. (KNS).