Port Blair, June 5: The valedictory function of World Environment Day celebration on the theme ‘Land Restoration, Desertification & Drought Resilience’ under the slogan ‘Our Land.Our Future. #We are Generation Restoration’, organized by Zoological Survey of India  was held in the Seminar Hall of TGCE here this evening. The Chief Secretary, A&N Administration, Shri Keshav Chandra, IAS was the chief guest on the occasion while the DGP, Shri Devesh Chandra Srivastva, IPS was the guest of honour. The program was attended by students, parents and staff/officials of ZSI and TGCE.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Secretary commended the efforts of Zoological Survey of India, A&N Regional Centre, Port Blair in creating awareness among the masses, especially children on the need for a sustainable environment. He highlighted about environment degradation and climate change, which calls for collective action.

The Chief Secretary stressed on the need for water conservation, clean air, and a green environment, which are essential for the well-being of all. “By preserving our water resources, reducing pollution, and fostering green spaces, we ensure a sustainable future for the generations to come”, the Chief Secretary remarked. He also called for a collective responsibility to protect and nurture the environment, stating that the choices we make today directly impact the quality of life for tomorrow and together, we can create a cleaner, healthier, and more vibrant world. The Chief Secretary threw light on common-pool resource problems and urged the gathering to be sensitive towards the environment and avoid over exploitation. 

The Chief Secretary further stated that by embracing eco-friendly habits, children can make a significant impact in the society they live in and parents must encourage them. “Every small action counts and by working together, we can foster a healthier environment for the future generation”, he said.

Speaking on the occasion, the DGP, highlighted the need for environmental protection and urged for conscious action in conserving the resources for the future generation. He said, desertification, land degradation, and drought, caused primarily by human activities and climatic variations are a silent and invisible crisis affecting people in all regions of the world, hence, there is a need for collaborative efforts in containing this.     The DGP also spoke on combating climate change, natural biodiversity loss and pollution and waste challenges and remarked that along with development, we must strive for cleaner and greener environment. 

The Chief Secretary and the DGP distributed certificates to the winners of various competitions organized as part of World Environment Day celebration.

Earlier, welcoming the gathering, Officer In-charge ANRC/ZSI, Dr. C Sivaperuman highlighted the significance of World Environment Day. He listed out the activities and events organized by ZSI, as part of the celebration and the efforts taken towards creating greater awareness among people on the theme of this year’s celebration.

The students of TGCE also presented a welcomed song on the occasion.