Udaipur, June 6 – Marking the global observance of World Environment Day, a joint initiative by Vigyan Samiti and the Dr. Daulat Singh Kothari Research and Teaching Institute brought together environment advocates, academicians, and students on Thursday for a day dedicated to ecological awareness and action.
The program began with a symbolic tree plantation ceremony in the institute premises, setting the tone for the event’s core message: tackling plastic pollution and promoting sustainable living.
Focus on the Theme: Beat Plastic Pollution
Presiding over the event, Dr. Maheep Bhatnagar, President of Vigyan Samiti, welcomed the attendees and offered an insightful explanation of this year’s global theme – “Beat Plastic Pollution.” He highlighted the growing threat of nano plastics entering the human body through food and water, pointing to increasing health risks like cancer and hormonal disorders. He called for an urgent collective effort to reduce plastic usage in daily life.
Neem Plantation and Practical Solutions
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. M.G. Varshney, Dean of Student Welfare at Pacific Medical University, emphasized the importance of community-level participation in planting medicinal trees like neem around homes and public spaces. He acknowledged that plastic production cannot be entirely eliminated, but stressed responsible disposal practices such as avoiding open littering of plastic bags and promoting organized waste collection.
Water Conservation in Rural Areas
Guest speaker Jitendra Mehta, President of Alert Institute, addressed the pressing need for water conservation initiatives in Udaipur’s rural belt. He advocated for constructing small reservoirs, check dams (anicuts), and implementing soil erosion control techniques. Mehta emphasized the role of rainwater harvesting as a long-term solution to the region’s water crisis.
Lessons from Jain Monastic Traditions
Dr. Pokharna, Chairman of the Kothari Institute, shared thought-provoking insights into the daily environmental discipline of Jain monks, highlighting how their lifestyle—rooted in minimalism and conscious living—offers timeless lessons in sustainable living.
Engaging the Next Generation
The event also featured short but impactful speeches by young students. Ishant Saxena (Class 6) and Vihaan Karanpuriya (Class 4) were applauded for their clear and passionate thoughts on curbing plastic pollution, reflecting growing environmental awareness among children.
Dr. K.L. Kothari, Principal of the institute, chaired the program and encouraged attendees to take a personal pledge to reduce plastic use and contribute actively to environmental conservation. Dr. K.P. Talesra conducted the proceedings, while Dr. K.L. Totawat delivered the vote of thanks.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The event was graced by several notable personalities including Dr. D.S. Mogra, Dr. Anil Bhatnagar, Vardhman Mehta, Dr. B.L. Chawat, Shantilal Bhandari, Dr. Rakesh Dashora, Engineer Y.K. Boliya, Prakash Tated, and Engineer R.K. Khokhawat, among others.
With this impactful celebration, the organizers reinforced the message that sustainability begins with awareness, and thrives through community participation and daily action.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
