Sri Vijaya Puram, June 05: The global observance of World Environment Day 2026 on 5 June, themed “Climate Action,” was celebrated with great enthusiasm at ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CIARI), Sri Vijaya Puram, its Regional Station at Minicoy, Lakshadweep, and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) across Nicobar, North and Middle Andaman, and South Andaman districts. The event underscored the urgent need for environmental conservation, sustainable natural resource management, and collective action to address the challenges posed by climate change. The programmes also aligned with the objectives of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan, emphasizing environmental protection, sustainable agriculture, and the preservation of natural resources for future generations.
A total of 50 saplings of lemon and other tree species were planted as part of the celebration. To mark the occasion, a plantation drive was organized on the institute campus. The programme was presided over by Prof. A.C. Varshney, Former Vice-Chancellor of Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Mathura, who graced the event as the Chief Guest. He underscored the significance of tree planting and the conservation of biodiversity as essential strategies for combating climate change and promoting ecological sustainability. He pointed out that such plantation efforts not only enhance environmental quality but also play a vital role in ensuring food and nutritional security while fostering sustainable livelihoods.
The event was attended by Dr. Nagesh Kumar Barik, Principal Scientist, ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA), Bhubaneswar, and Dr. M.K. Singh, Principal Scientist & Head, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Goats (ICAR-CIRG), Makhdoom, Mathura, who actively participated in the plantation programme. They emphasized the need for integrating environmental conservation with agricultural development to ensure long-term sustainability and resilience against climate-related challenges.
The plantation drive witnessed enthusiastic participation from all Heads of Divisions, scientists, administrative officers, Assistant Administrative Officers, technical staff, and other employees of the institute. The programme also saw the active involvement of around 120 farmers, village leaders, officials from line departments, and other stakeholders, reflecting a collective commitment towards environmental conservation and sustainable development.
Dr. Jai Sunder, Director, ICAR-CIARI, reiterated the institute’s commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture and natural resource management in the fragile island ecosystem of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. He emphasized that plantation of trees contributes environmental conservation while providing long-term economic and nutritional benefits. He also encouraged all staff members to actively participate in environmental stewardship and adopt eco-friendly practices in their daily lives.
Dr. Jai Sunder, Director, ICAR-CIARI, reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and natural resource management in the fragile island ecosystem of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. He emphasized that tree plantation plays a crucial role in environmental conservation by enhancing biodiversity, improving ecological balance, and mitigating the adverse impacts of climate change. Dr. Sunder encouraged all staff members, farmers, and stakeholders to actively participate in environmental stewardship and adopt eco-friendly practices in their daily lives to ensure a greener and more sustainable future.
The entire plantation drive was coordinated by Mr. Arvind Kumar Tripathi, Chief Technical Officer & Farm Superintendent. The programme concluded with a collective pledge by all participants to protect the environment, conserve natural resources, and contribute towards a greener, healthier, and more climate-resilient future.
The observance of World Environment Day 2026 at ICAR-CIARI reflected the institute’s dedication to environmental sustainability and its continued efforts to support the global call for climate action through meaningful on-ground initiatives.
