Kargil, June 02, 2025 – In the lead-up to World Environment Day, the Department of Forest, Ecology & Environment, UT Ladakh, in collaboration with HEAL-Ladakh NGO, successfully organized a comprehensive awareness event on the theme “Ending Plastic Pollution” today here at Auditorium Hall, Kargil.

The campaign brought together experts, officials, students and local stakeholders to address the growing menace of plastic pollution and to promote sustainable environmental practices in the region.

The event featured multiple activities including a speech competition for students, fostering enthusiasm and awareness among the youth to act as ambassadors of environmental change.

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The event was graced by several dignitaries including Additional Deputy Commissioner, Kargil, Imteeaz Kacho as Chief Guest; Headquarter Assistant to Deputy Commissioner, Kaneez Fatima, Executive Officer, Municipal Committee, Arifa Iqbal Lone; Wildlife Warden Raza Ali Abidi; Resource Persons Assistant Professor Dr. Mohammad Saleem, Dr. Amir Khan, Assistant Professor Dr. Abdul Hamid and students from various Government and private schools.

Speaking on the occasion, Kacho congratulated the community on the occasion of World Environment Day and underlined the urgency of addressing plastic pollution. He said that plastic no doubt is a menace and we must explore shifting to alternatives, such as cotton bags, and promote biodegradable material. He also stressed on the importance of balanced and sustainable plastic usage and the necessity to prevent plastic accumulation in rivers, fields and natural habitats which severely impacts animal and human health.

ADC-Kargil acknowledged the pivotal role of Wildlife, Ecology & Forest Department and HEAL-Ladakh for imparting awareness about climate change and environmental mitigation steps especially among the younger generation. He also urged students to implement the learnings from today’s gathering in their respective lives and communities to spread awareness.

The ADC also highlighted the significance of social media as a powerful tool to spread environmental awareness and to mobilize public action. He urged for a mass movement, encouraging every Government and private organization to contribute actively towards addressing the pressing environmental concerns.

He also said that the initiative has been supported by the Taxi Union, Merchant Association and other stake holders to strengthen the cause for environmental sustainability in Ladakh.

“This prelude to World Environment Day served as a call to action for all stakeholders—students, educators, administrators, and citizens—to unite in combating plastic pollution and protecting Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem for future generations”, he added.

Dr. Mohammad Saleem, Assistant Professor, University of Ladakh delivered a detailed presentation on the hazardous consequences of plastic usage and mitigation strategies highlighting the urgent need to adopt sustainable alternatives.

While speaking on “Climate Change and Plastic Use: Understanding the Link and the Way Forward”, Dr.Amir Khan emphasized the interconnectivity of plastic pollution and climate change, urging collective efforts to curb the crisis.

Dr. Abdul Hamid presented insights on Disaster Risk Reduction with respect to the Union Territory of Ladakh illustrating the compounded risk plastic pollution adds to fragile ecosystems and natural disasters.

Students from various schools also present their speech on various topics aligning with the broader theme of the event “Ending Plastic Pollution.’’

Ahmad, R/o Silmo was also felicitated on the occasion and honoured with a khataqs. The chief guest urged that Ahmad should be made an ambassador for environment protection in Kargil.