DH NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, JUNE 8
The Jammu Chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) marked World Environment Day 2025 with a vibrant and thought-provoking celebration that underscored the urgent need for environmental awareness and action. Held in alignment with this year’s global theme, “Beat Plastic Pollution,” the event reflected INTACH’s enduring commitment to heritage preservation and ecological responsibility.
The highlight of the event was an enlightening lecture by Professor A.K. Raina, former Head of the Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Jammu. In his address, Professor Raina explained the dangers posed by plastic pollution, noting that while plastic has revolutionized convenience in modern life, its non-biodegradable nature makes it a long-term threat to the environment and human health. He emphasized that plastics release hazardous chemicals during degradation and burning, leading to air, water, and soil contamination.
Professor Raina drew attention to startling global data, stating that only 9% of plastic is currently recycled and that more than 11 million tonnes of plastic waste enter the world’s oceans each year, endangering marine life and entering the food chain. He raised serious concerns about microplastics and nanoplastics being found even in human organs, calling it a clear warning sign of the pervasive impact of plastic pollution.
He urged the public to take collective action-by reducing plastic consumption, embracing sustainable alternatives, supporting recycling initiatives, and demanding stronger policy interventions from governments. He stressed that plastic pollution is a crisis created by human choices and that it can still be reversed through collective responsibility and informed action.
During the celebration, Shri S.M. Sahni, Convener of INTACH Jammu Chapter, shared proud news with the gathering. The chapter was recently awarded as the best performing chapter in the INTACH Quiz Competition, a recognition of the team’s dedication to cultural and environmental awareness. The formal presentation of the award was made during the event, bringing a moment of pride and motivation for all members.
As a meaningful and symbolic gesture, Tulsi (Holy Basil) plants were distributed among all attendees. Tulsi, revered for its medicinal, ecological, and cultural significance, was chosen to reinforce the message of holistic well-being and environmental harmony.
The event concluded with all participants taking a renewed pledge to continue their efforts in environmental conservation and to support INTACH’s broader mission of safeguarding both cultural and natural heritage. The celebration served as a reminder that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility that begins with small yet powerful actions.
