Car Nicobar, June 5: World Environment Day was celebrated at ICAR- KVK Nicobar, at Perka village. Mrs. Jyoti Kumari, IAS, DC, Nicobar was the Chief Guest. Mr. Paul David, Captain of Perka village was the guest of honour. A total of 50 farmers were participated in the awareness cum massive tree plantation.
In her address, the Chief Guest stressed on the effects of the pollution of Islands on coral reefs, which can impede coral growth, disrupt overall ecological function, and cause disease and mortality in sensitive species, including fish. She further emphasised that Environment Day is not to be celebrated only once a year; rather, we should make a commitment to celebrate each day as Environment Day for bundling safe and secure environment for the future.
Mr. Paul David, 1st Headman of Perka village, highlighted the issue of planting more tress and making island clean and green. Dr. Santosh Kumar, Sr. Scientist cum Head, KVK Car Nicobar elaborated on the theme of World Environment Day 2024.
On this occasion, a massive plantation drive was carried out in the presence of DC, Nicobar, Forest Division, BDO, Car Nicobar, MNREGA staff, villagers, etc. A total of 500 saplings including padauk, guava, lemon, jamun, tamarind, and bael, along with passion fruit and papaya, were planted on both sides of the road (arboriculture) and also distributed to the farmers for their backyards.
The programme was ended with the vote of thanks by Mr. Erularajan, Forest Ranger, Nicobar Division. The programme was organised under the guidance of Dr. E.B. Chakurkar, Director, ICAR-CIARI, Port Blair.