Shri Venkateshwara University Marks World Earth Day with Massive Tree Plantation and Debate Competition

“Environmental conservation is not only a global necessity but a fundamental duty,” emphasize university leaders

Meerut, Correspondent.

On the occasion of World Earth Day, Shri Venkateshwara University & Institute, located on National Highway Bypass, organized a large-scale tree plantation drive, an awareness rally, and a debate competition centered on the theme: “Environmental Protection—A Global Necessity and Fundamental Duty.”

The event was inaugurated with the traditional lamp lighting ceremony before the idol of Goddess Saraswati by Dr. Sudhir Giri (Founder & Chairman), Dr. Rajeev Tyagi (Pro-Vice Chancellor and Official Representative of the Chairman), Prof. (Dr.) Krishnakant Dave (Vice Chancellor), and renowned environmentalist Prof. (Dr.) Madhu Chaturvedi.

In his address, Dr. Sudhir Giri highlighted the alarming pace of climate change due to the reckless exploitation of natural resources.

“The world is already witnessing the impact of global warming with average temperatures soaring between 40°C to 45°C even in April. If we do not act swiftly, humanity will face irreversible destruction. Tree plantation must become a continuous mission, not a ceremonial act,” he said while administering the oath of environmental protection to students and staff.

Dr. Rajeev Tyagi, in his message, emphasized,

“Without timely action on afforestation and environmental conservation, the consequences will be dire for future generations. We must pledge not only to plant trees but to preserve and nurture them lifelong.”

Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Krishnakant Dave urged all participants to adopt green practices as a way of life. Dr. Madhu Chaturvedi, an esteemed environmentalist and Chairperson of the Cultural Cell, inspired attendees with her vision of turning the Earth green through collective efforts.

A highlight of the event was a debate competition on the theme “Environmental Conservation: A Global Need and a Fundamental Duty,” which saw participation from approximately 150 students across departments. Winners were honored with medals and certificates. The results were as follows:

• First Prize: Arpit Gautam & Pradyumn Bhati (School of Paramedical Sciences)

• Second Prize: Anshika Paul & Muskan (School of Commerce & Management)

• Third Prize: Harsh Kumar & Yash Sharma (School of Pharmacy)

• Encouragement Award: Aman Abbas & Mohammad Mateen (School of Nursing)

Winners received gold, silver, and bronze medals along with official certificates. All participants were awarded participation certificates to recognize their contribution.

The event was graced by several dignitaries, including CEO Ajay Srivastava, Registrar Dr. Piyush Pandey, Dr. V.N. Jha, Dr. S.N. Sahu, Dr. Rajesh Singh, Dr. Ena Eric Brown, Dr. Yogeshwar Prasad Sharma, Dr. Ashutosh Singh, Dr. Omprakash Gosai, Dr. Dinesh Kumar Gautam, Dr. Anil Jaiswal, Dr. Tejpal Singh, Dr. Reena Joshi, Dr. Aarti Gupta, Dr. Anjali Bhardwaj, Ms. Tanushree Vyas, Dr. Snehlata Goswami, Dr. Vikas Kumar Pandey, Ms. Diksha Jadaun, and Ms. Anjali Thakur. From the Meerut campus, Dr. Pratap Singh and Media Coordinator Vishwas Rana were also in attendance.

The event reflected the university’s strong commitment to sustainable development and environmental awareness, encouraging collective action to combat climate change and preserve the planet for future generations.