Sikhs hold Gurbani Kirtan to raise environmental awareness in Shivalik forest
PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Haldwani
In a unique initiative combining faith with environmental responsibility, members of the Sikh community organised a Gurbani Kirtan in the Shivalik Chhakata range along the Roshila–Pasauli route to raise awareness about forest conservation and wildlife protection here on Sunday.
The event elicited focus on the rising environmental challenges in the Himalayan foothill region, including deforestation, rising temperatures and climate change. Speakers highlighted that the rapid loss of forest cover is disturbing ecological balance and forcing wildlife closer to human settlements, leading to an increase in human-wildlife conflict. Notably, three fatalities in leopard attacks have been reported in the past 15 days, underscoring the seriousness of the issue.
Led by Sardar Jagjit Singh Anand, the programme saw participation from Aman Deep Singh Tinku, Mahendra Singh Sethi, Jaspal Singh and other members of the community. The Kirtan was also dedicated as a tribute to those who lost their lives in recent wildlife attacks.
The organisers emphasised the need for immediate action, urging citizens to contribute through tree plantation, minimising plastic use, and supporting forest fire prevention efforts. Quoting the Gurbani verse, “Pavan Guru, Pani Pita, Mata Dharat Mahat,” speakers called for treating air, water and earth as sacred elements deserving respect and protection.
