Anantnag/Kulgam: Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) Anantnag successfully observed World Environment Day 2026 across various locations in the districts of Anantnag and Kulgam with great enthusiasm and active participation from youth volunteers, students, educational institutions, and members of the local community.In Anantnag, the main programme was organized at Oxford Presentation School, Bijbehara with the objective of promoting environmental awareness, sustainable practices, and collective responsibility towards protecting nature. The event was graced by Mr. Muzaffar Ahmad Sofi, Chairman, Oxford Presentation School, as the Chief Guest and Dr. Rayees Ahmad as the Guest of Honour. The dignitaries highlighted the importance of environmental conservation and encouraged youth to become ambassadors of a greener and cleaner future.In Kulgam, the celebrations were organized at Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS) Qaimoh in collaboration with the District Forest Office Kulgam. The programme was presided over by Dr. Sajad Ahmad, Principal GHSS Qaimoh, as the Chief Guest, while the Block Forest Officer attended as the Guest of Honour.
A series of awareness and community engagement activities were conducted during the celebrations, including a Pledge Ceremony, Declamation Contest, Quiz Competition, Cleanliness Drive (Swachhta Abhiyan), Padyatra (Awareness March), and Plantation Drive.The Declamation Contest on Environmental Protection and Sustainability provided participants with an opportunity to express their views, ideas, and solutions related to environmental challenges. The speakers emphasized the importance of afforestation, waste management, water conservation, and reducing plastic pollution.As part of the observance, a Cleanliness Drive was carried out in and around the venues and adjoining public spaces. Volunteers actively participated in cleaning roadsides, public areas, and educational institutions, conveying a strong message about maintaining cleanliness and environmental hygiene.A Pledge Ceremony was also organized, during which participants pledged to protect the environment, reduce the use of plastic, conserve natural resources, and contribute towards building a sustainable future.To further spread awareness among the public, a Padyatra (Awareness March) was conducted. Participants carried placards and banners displaying environmental messages and slogans, encouraging citizens to adopt eco-friendly practices and actively participate in environmental conservation efforts.The Plantation Drive witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, volunteers, and community members who planted saplings and reaffirmed their commitment to preserving the environment and enhancing green cover in their respective areas.Speaking on the occasion, the dignitaries appreciated the efforts of MY Bharat Anantnag in mobilizing youth for meaningful environmental action and emphasized that collective participation is essential for addressing environmental concerns and ensuring a healthy planet for future generations.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, wherein the organizers expressed gratitude to all guests, participants, volunteers, educational institutions, the District Forest Department, and community members for their valuable support and enthusiastic participation in making the observance of World Environment Day 2026 a grand success.
