- The event aimed to raise awareness in society about environmental conservation and climate change.
- Organized under the joint aegis of the Department of Environment and Climate Change, Government of Jharkhand, and the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, IIT ISM Dhanbad, at the Vivekananda Auditorium, Sona Devi University.
Seva Parv was celebrated with great enthusiasm at Sona Devi University. In line with the directives of the central and state governments, the event was organized under the joint aegis of the Department of Environment and Climate Change, Government of Jharkhand, and the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, IIT ISM Dhanbad, at the Vivekananda Auditorium of the university. The Divisional Forest Office, Jamshedpur, also extended its support in organizing this program.
The keynote speaker, Professor Alok Sinha, Head of the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, IIT ISM Dhanbad, outlined the purpose of the event, stating that it is aimed at raising awareness in society about environmental protection and climate change. He emphasized the need to engage people in activities like cleanliness drives, plantation, biodiversity conservation, and pollution control. The goal is to bring the concept of sustainable development to the public, promote collective efforts to protect forests, natural resources, and wildlife, and especially to involve citizens—particularly youth and students—in environmental service initiatives.
Speaking on water quality and conservation, Professor Sinha highlighted that water is one of the most vital resources on Earth, and hence its efficient management is essential. He noted that groundwater is rich in nutrients, but these nutrients often get reduced due to excessive water filtration. He also mentioned several elements that, when present in excess, can harm the human body and cause various diseases.
Professor Suresh Pandian, a scientist from the same department at IIT ISM Dhanbad, pointed out that the reckless exploitation of natural resources from the environment is leading to a scarcity that will significantly affect human life in the future. He discussed various technical aspects related to air quality index and water quality, which have a direct impact on both the environment and human life. He appealed to everyone present in the auditorium to make environmental protection a people’s movement under the spirit of “Seva Hi Sangathan” (Service is Organization) to ensure environmental sustainability. He also stressed increasing community participation to tackle the challenges of climate change and emphasized that society must come forward to fulfill its responsibilities toward environmental conservation.
The event was inaugurated by Dr. Gulab Singh Azad, Registrar of Sona Devi University, who said that to protect the environment, we must change our lifestyles. Discussing both the Indian and global scenarios, the Registrar noted that India has had an environmental consciousness since ancient times. Referring to recent natural disasters in states like Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Punjab, he stated that these are the consequences of environmental degradation. He also highlighted various central government programs and mentioned the efforts of the students and NSS units of Sona Devi University in environmental protection.
Dr. Azad shared that several arrangements have been made on the university campus for water and energy conservation and that existing resources are being used efficiently as part of the university’s commitment to environmental sustainability. He provided information about student-led initiatives like plantation drives, awareness rallies, and water and energy conservation activities.
On this occasion, Dr. J.P. Mishra, Vice-Chancellor of Sona Devi University, remarked that as we harm the environment, we are compelled to face the consequences such as environmental degradation and natural disasters. He added that we are living in an age of confusion and that only by protecting nature can we ensure our own safety. Dr. Mishra also spoke about psychosomatic disorders, stating that environmental factors are increasingly contributing to such health issues.
The event was graced by the presence of the university’s Chancellor, Mr. Prabhakar Singh, along with heads of various faculties and departments, students, and other distinguished guests.
Seva Parv, which began on the birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will continue until October 2nd, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The program concluded with the national anthem.
