Port Blair, June 5: Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) organised a series of events for celebrating mission LiFE and the World Environment Day. Mission LiFE (Lifestyle For Environment) is an India led global mass movement to nudge individual and community action, to protect environment. On the occasion of the 26th UN Climate Change Conference, Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, introduced Mission ‘LiFE’, to engage individuals in mitigating the adverse effects of climate change. To spread mass awareness about Mission ‘LiFE’ ANC carried out extensive activities, coinciding with World Environment Day which is being observed with the theme “Beat Plastic Pollution”.

As a run up to World Environment Day, Commandant Coast Guard Region (A&N), flagged off the events on 04 Jun 23 including Run for Fun, Bicycle Rally, Open Sea Swimming and tree plantation drive.

On 05 Jun 23, all components of Andaman and Nicobar Command (Army, Navy, Air Force & Coast Guard) commemorated World Environment Day with great fervour. Personnel, including women and children, participated in a joint initiative towards ‘Coastal Clean Ship.’ This significant endeavour aimed to instill a sense of responsibility among personnel to safeguard our oceans and marine life for future generations. The events witnessed active participation from service personnel, ladies and children.  Over 500 personnel actively took part in various events. The day began with an Environment Day Pledge in the presence of Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan, AVSM, VM Commander-in-Chief, Andaman & Nicobar Command. The pledge ceremony aimed to enhance awareness of coastal protection and preservation of nature.

The Coastal Beach Clean Ship Drive resulted in collection of more than 200 kg of waste from Corbyns Cove, and approximately 150 kg of waste each from Munda Pahad and Chidiya Tapu respectively. The civil administration graciously extended their support and coordination in making the event a resounding success.

The events on 05 Jun 23 culminated with a prize distribution ceremony recognising the ‘ANC’ ‘Environment Friendly Units’. Four units under ANC, two each in Major and Minor categories, were bestowed with the Best Environment Friendly Unit Rolling Trophies. The awards were presented by Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan, AVSM VM, Commander-in-Chief, Andaman & Nicobar Command.