Ganderbal |: The Department of Students Welfare (DSW) and the National Service Scheme (NSS) at the Central University of Kashmir (CUK) on Friday organized a workshop titled “Recycling Waste: Advocacy for Swachhata” to address the critical issue of waste management.
Dr. Shabir Ahmad Ahanger, the NSS Coordinator, presented alarming statistics on waste generation in India, emphasizing the detrimental effects of improper waste disposal on pollution, climate change, and public health. He warned about the pervasive dangers of plastic waste, including its infiltration into the food chain and its long-term consequences such as global warming and biodiversity loss. Dr. Shahnaz Akhtar, an NSS officer, highlighted the importance of integrating recycling into daily life as part of the Swabhav Swachhata, Sanskaar Swachhata campaign. She advocated for systematic waste segregation into organic, recyclable, and hazardous categories to enhance recycling efficiency and reduce environmental harm. Dr. Shahnaz emphasized that recycling is not just a waste management strategy but a cultural value that promotes responsibility and sustainability, contributing to a circular economy that benefits both society and the environment. Additionally, she introduced the 3Rs of Recycling—Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle—sharing practical DIY recycling tips such as repurposing glass jars, old clothes, and cardboard boxes. Dr. Muhammad Ahmed Reza from the Department of Religious Studies discussed the ethical and spiritual aspects of environmental stewardship, noting that religions advocate for cleanliness and responsibility towards nature, framing waste reduction as a civic and moral duty. Youth Welfare Officer Dr. Adil Amiz Nazki underscored the significance of such initiatives in fostering socially responsible citizens and aligning the university’s efforts with the broader Swachhata Hi Seva 2025 movement.
