Sri Vijaya Puram, Sept. 16: The Zoological Survey of India, Andaman & Nicobar Regional Centre, and EIACP Centre on Island Biodiversity conducted the valedictory function of the World Ozone Day 2025 on 16th September, 2025. Captain Preekshit Mahajan, Station Flight Safety Officer (SFSO), INS Utkrosh, Indian Navy was the Chief Guest for the valedictory function and Shri. M. Vinod, President, Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO), A & N Islands was the guest of honour.
At the outset, the Additional Director Dr. C. Sivaperuman greeted everyone and gave an overview of the activities conducted as a part of celebration of World Ozone Day 2025. This year’s topic, “From Science to Global Action,” which focusses on the path from the scientific discovery of ozone depletion to the international success of the 1987 Montreal Protocol which is regarded as the most successful environmental treaty was highlighted in his speech. He emphasized the day’s significance by pointing out that life is shielded from damaging UV rays by the ozone layer, which serves as the planet’s natural sunscreen.
In his valedictory address, Captain Preekshit Mahajan highlighted this year’s theme, “From Science to Global Action,” pointing out how research had determined the causes of ozone depletion and how the Montreal Protocol, which was adopted almost 40 years ago, had effectively undone the harm. According to him, the protocol is among the most effective international environmental agreements, and it was made possible by both world leaders and regular people who recognized the need for change. He emphasized the accomplishments, saying that worldwide cooperation has managed ozone depletion and that the ozone layer is currently recovering, guaranteeing a sustainable earth for coming generations.
In his address, Shri. M. Vinod expressed gratitude to the attendees and best wishes to all of the kids who actively participated in the activities. He highlighted the importance of the World Ozone Day 2025 and the role that each and every person plays in preserving the environment. Shri. Vinod reminded the audience that eco-friendly methods are crucial to sustaining the tourism industry in future as tourism is the main driver of the Andaman Islands’ economy. He called on everyone to start making changes at home by refusing plastic, maintaining clean beaches without relying only on the government, using less electricity, and enticing young people to embrace sustainable habits like riding bicycles instead of cars.
At the end, the winners of the drawing competitions organized by ZSI received certificates from the Chief Guest and dignitaries.