The eight-day environmental awareness program organized at Sona Devi University on the occasion of World Environment Day concluded today on its eighth and final day in a grand, inspiring, and dignified atmosphere. The program was not limited to being a formal event; rather, it emerged as a comprehensive public awareness campaign focusing on environmental conservation, sustainable development, social responsibility, and youth participation. The primary objective of the program was to cultivate environmental sensitivity among students, help them understand environmental challenges, and strengthen the spirit of conservation at a practical level. The closing ceremony began traditionally with the lighting of the lamp. The ceremonial lamp lighting symbolized not only the formal inauguration of the event but also collective commitment toward knowledge, awareness, responsibility, and environmental protection. The event was effectively and gracefully conducted by Ms. Anusua Roy, Head of the Department of English, whose coordination and anchoring kept the program organized and vibrant throughout. During the eight-day program organized by the university, several academic, cultural, and awareness-based activities were conducted. These included yoga sessions, poster and slogan writing competitions, environmental quizzes, awareness campaigns, interactive discussions, and creative activities. The fundamental aim of these events was not merely to provide theoretical knowledge to students but also to make them sensitive toward environmental issues and inspire them to actively contribute toward solutions. During the closing ceremony, students who had demonstrated outstanding performance in various competitions and activities were honored with certificates by the Honorable Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua and Mr. Krishnendu Dutta, Head of the Department of Mathematics. This recognition was not merely a formal acknowledgment of achievements but a public appreciation of the students’ efforts, creative thinking, and commitment toward environmental responsibility. The joy, confidence, and renewed inspiration visible on the faces of the students further energized the atmosphere of the ceremony. On this occasion, Ms. Princi, Assistant Professor in the Department of Economics, expressed her views on environmental conservation. She stated that environmental crisis today is no longer only a scientific or natural issue but has become a serious concern linked to social, economic, and global development. She emphasized that uncontrolled industrialization, excessive exploitation of natural resources, increasing pollution, and climate change are adversely affecting the future of coming generations. Therefore, environmental protection should not remain limited to government schemes but must evolve into a social movement. She also encouraged students to adopt water conservation, energy-saving practices, and environmentally friendly lifestyles. Monali Mahanta, a student of the Department of Agricultural Science, also shared her thoughts and stated that environmental conservation is one of the greatest necessities of the present time. She highlighted that the relationship between nature and human life is based on mutual dependence, and any imbalance in nature directly impacts human health, agriculture, water resources, and social life. She appealed to the youth to actively participate in tree plantation, cleanliness drives, plastic-free lifestyles, and the conservation of natural resources. Her words strengthened the spirit of positivity and responsibility among the students. In his presidential address, the university’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Braj Mohan Pat Pingua stated that environmental conservation is not a subject confined to a single day or event but a continuous process and moral responsibility of life. He said that the entire world is currently facing serious challenges such as climate change, global warming, deforestation, and threats to biodiversity. In such circumstances, the role of universities and educational institutions cannot remain limited to imparting knowledge alone; they must also become centers for developing social awareness and environmental leadership. He inspired students by stating that the true purpose of education is not merely obtaining degrees but becoming responsible citizens toward society and nature. He added that if the younger generation moves forward with a commitment to environmental protection, widespread transformation in society is possible. He urged every student to plant at least one tree, conserve water, and incorporate environmental responsibilities into their daily lives. The Chancellor of the university, Mr. Prabhakar Singh, in his motivational address, said that nature is the foundation of human civilization and its protection is the moral and social responsibility of every individual. He emphasized that modern development can only be considered meaningful when it progresses alongside environmental balance and the protection of natural resources. He motivated students by stating that the youth are the greatest force of transformation, and through their awareness and active participation, the campaign for environmental protection can become a true people’s movement. The program concluded with a soulful presentation of the National Song and the National Anthem by Ms. Sangeeta Chaudhary, Head of the Department of Music. Her melodious performance filled the ceremony with patriotism, cultural dignity, and emotional unity, while all those present collectively reaffirmed their commitment toward the nation and environmental conservation. In the end, the university family appreciated the dedicated efforts, effective coordination, and capable guidance of Ms. Anusua Roy, Head of the Department of English, for the successful organization of the event. Under her leadership and cooperation, the eight-day World Environment Day program concluded successfully. This event emerged not merely as a program but as a powerful example of the university’s commitment toward environmental awareness, social responsibility, and sustainable development.
