JAMMU, FEBRUARY 03: To mark World Wetlands Day 2026, Department of Ecology, Environment & Remote Sensing (EIACP) J&K Hub on Tuesday organized an awareness and outreach programme in alignment with the global theme of “Wetlands and traditional knowledge: Celebrating cultural heritage” and the Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) initiative.
The event aimed to sensitize students and the local community to the ecological, cultural and environmental significance of wetlands.
Students from the Department of Environmental Sciences (EVS), Government College for Women (GCW), Parade, along with Dr. Harmanmeet Kour, HOD & Dr. Neha were taken on an educational field visit to Mansar Lake, a renowned wetland and a Ramsar site of Jammu region. During the visit, an awareness rally was organized around the periphery of the lake, where students actively spread messages discouraging the use of plastic and highlighting its harmful effects on wetlands and biodiversity.
A cleanliness drive was also conducted along the lake area, in which students participated enthusiastically. The drive resulted in the collection of approximately 70 kilograms of plastic waste (handed over to Wildlife department for disposal under rule), reinforcing the core principles of Mission LiFE through collective action and responsible behavior.
The participants were briefed about the ecological importance of Mansar Lake by Yashbeer Singh, Block Development Officer (BDO), who highlighted its biodiversity, conservation challenges and sustainable management practices.
The Programme Officer- EIACP J&K Hub, Dr. Kirti Bhatt elaborated on the cultural significance of wetlands, Ramsar sites and their role in maintaining ecological balance, emphasizing the need for community participation in wetland conservation.
The programme was attended by Range Officer, Anil Sharma, Nitin Sharma, Chetan Gupta along with the staff of the NMSHE Project. The event witnessed the active participation of nearly 60 students and stakeholders, making it a meaningful and impactful observance of World Wetlands Day 2026. The programme was organized under the supervision of Dr. Rajan Singh, Coordinator, EIACP J&K hub.