PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
The Uttarakhand State Council for Science and Technology (UCOST) celebrated World Environment Day on Friday under the theme “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future”. The event brought together scientists, academicians, students and environmental enthusiasts to promote awareness and collective action towards environmental conservation and sustainable development.
UCOST director general Durgesh Pant informed the audience about various scientific and environmental initiatives being undertaken by the council across the State. He emphasised on the importance of integrating science and nature to build a sustainable future and encouraged greater participation of youth in environmental conservation.
Delivering the keynote lecture, Sparsh Himalaya University vice chancellor RC Sundriyal discussed the Himalayan ecological system, livelihood challenges, natural resource management and inspiring examples of community participation in conserving natural resources across Himalayan states. He said that harmony with nature is the foundation of sustainable development and stressed on the need for balancing development with ecological conservation.
Centre for Aromatic Plants director Nirpendra K Chuahan shared several success stories from the aromatic and medicinal plant sector. He encouraged young people to adopt scientific approaches in entrepreneurship and explore sustainable business opportunities based on natural resources. UCOST joint director DP Uniyal highlighted the importance of Himalayan keystone species and shared inspiring stories of environmental conservation initiatives across the state.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from more than 300 students representing Shivalik Institute, Uttaranchal University and various schools of Dehradun. Scientists, officials and staff members from UCOST, the Regional Science Centre and several other institutions were also present. The programme concluded with a plantation drive and a call for collective action, reinforcing that nature-based solutions, scientific innovation and community participation are indispensable for addressing climate challenges and building a resilient and sustainable future for generations to come.
