Shillong, June 5 : The Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Shillong, under the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India, today orchestrated a comprehensive awareness program at St. Francis D’Assisi Hr School, Umbir, Ri Bhoi, to commemorate World Environment Day 2025. The event championed environmental sustainability, nutrition awareness, and student engagement through a blend of interactive sessions, tree plantation, and creative competitions.
The day commenced with a symbolic plantation drive, where students, NCC cadets, teachers, and invited guests collectively planted fruit-bearing trees within the school campus. This activity served to reinforce national campaigns such as ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ (A Tree in Mother’s Name) and ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ (Cleanliness is Service), signifying a deep commitment to environmental stewardship.
Heipormi Papang, District Agriculture Officer, Umsning Block, addressed the gathering, focusing on this year’s World Environment Day theme, “Beat Plastic Pollution.” He meticulously detailed the detrimental effects of plastic waste, highlighting its impact on water bodies, soil degradation, wildlife endangerment, and its insidious entry into the human food chain through microplastics. Papang urged students to adopt small but consistent habits to reduce plastic consumption and to actively champion sustainable alternatives. He also encouraged participation in the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, beautifully intertwining environmental action with an emotional tribute to mothers.
Nutritionist Dari Shylla elaborated on the objectives of Poshan Abhiyan, India’s flagship nutrition scheme aimed at children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. She drew a crucial link between malnutrition and environmental degradation, explaining how unhealthy diets, excessive plastic packaging, and the loss of traditional foods contribute to both health challenges and pollution. She advocated for embracing local, seasonal foods, establishing kitchen gardens, and adopting sustainable practices to achieve a “Suposhit Bharat” — a well-nourished India.
Brother Biju Jose, Principal of St. Francis D’Assisi Hr School, expressed his gratitude for CBC Shillong’s collaboration, emphasizing the significance of such programs in nurturing responsible and environmentally aware students. He encouraged the students to reaffirm their commitment to protecting the planet by conserving resources and promoting sustainable behavior, not just within the school premises but in every facet of their daily lives.
The program also featured a lively quiz, an art competition, and an innovative ‘Waste to Art’ contest, inspiring creativity around themes of plastic pollution, sustainability, and nutrition. Students showcased remarkable ingenuity by transforming waste materials into meaningful, eco-friendly artworks. Winners of these competitions were recognized with certificates and prizes.
Gopajit Das, Assistant Director, CBC & PIB Shillong, underscored the pervasive impact of plastic pollution on daily life and exhorted students to actively reject single-use plastics and adopt greener habits. He commended the school’s efforts and the enthusiastic participation of the students.
The event concluded with a united pledge by students, educators, and officials, collectively reaffirming their dedication to building a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for all.
