GDC Zanskar Celebrates World Environment Day 2026
in Collaboration with Biodiversity Management Committee and Forest Division Kargil
05/06/2026
Zanskar, June 05 (KIP)-Government Degree College (GDC) Zanskar, in collaboration with the Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC), Forest Division Kargil, celebrated World Environment Day 2026 with great enthusiasm on 5 June 2026. The programme was organised under the theme “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”, aiming to promote environmental awareness, ecological responsibility, and sustainable practices among students and the local community.
The event sought to highlight the growing environmental challenges posed by climate change and to sensitise participants about the adverse impacts of both anthropogenic and natural factors on ecosystems. It also emphasised the collective responsibility of individuals and institutions in safeguarding the environment for future generations.
The programme commenced with the ceremonial welcome of the Guest of honour, SSP Zanskar, Shri Rigzin Sandup, JKPS, and Chief Guest, Executive Councillor, LAHDC Kargil, Er. Phuntsog Tashi, who were felicitated with traditional khataks by the Principal of GDC Zanskar, Dr. Amjad Ali Abbasi. This was followed by the singing of the National Anthem.
Addressing the gathering, Principal Dr. Amjad Ali Abbasi underscored the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable living. He stressed that environmental protection should not be confined to a single day of observance but must remain a year-round commitment. He urged students and citizens alike to become ambassadors of environmental stewardship and actively contribute towards preserving the natural heritage of Zanskar.
Mr. Mohd Hanifa, Forester, Forest Division Kargil, delivered an informative lecture on the significance of World Environment Day. He noted that with Zanskar recently attaining district status, the region is expected to witness accelerated infrastructural development, which may bring new environmental challenges. He highlighted the need for proactive mitigation measures, particularly afforestation and plantation initiatives, to counter future pollution and ecological degradation. Emphasising the role of educational institutions in environmental conservation, he proposed that plantation drives at colleges could serve as long-term carbon sinks. He also expressed gratitude to GDC Zanskar for organising the event in collaboration with the Forest Department.
SSP Zanskar, Shri Rigzin Sandup, JKPS, spoke on the importance of protecting nature and maintaining ecological balance. Sharing his personal commitment to environmental conservation, he remarked that tree plantation should become a regular practice for every citizen. He emphasised that preserving the environment is fundamental to protecting the unique landscape and cultural identity of Zanskar.
Executive Councillor Er. Phuntsog Tashi highlighted the importance of expanding green cover in the region. Referring to century-old trees found in certain parts of Zanskar, he observed that the region is capable of supporting tree growth and that greater efforts are needed to cultivate a culture of plantation among the local population. He noted that plantation initiatives undertaken at GDC Zanskar over a decade ago have now matured into healthy trees, demonstrating the long-term benefits of such efforts. He further informed the gathering about ongoing initiatives to promote fruit tree cultivation in the region and expressed optimism regarding their success. Appreciating the role of the college in advancing higher education in the region, he commended the Principal and staff for their dedication and contributions to academic development in Zanskar.
The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Mohd Salim, who expressed gratitude to the distinguished guests, the Principal, faculty members, non-teaching staff, students, and representatives of the Forest Department for their valuable participation and support. He also acknowledged the Forest Department Zanskar for providing saplings for the plantation drive. A total of 100 willow cuttings and few other plants were planted at the college.
Following the programme, a plantation drive was conducted within the college campus under the theme “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam.” Faculty members, students, and guests actively participated in the initiative by planting saplings, reaffirming their commitment to environmental conservation and the creation of a greener and more sustainable future for Zanskar.