RONO HILLS, 26 Oct: More than 100 students from various departments of Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) attended a training of trainers (ToT) programme titled ‘Nature nurturers’ at the university’s Arunachal Institute of Tribal Studies (AITS) here on Thursday.
The ToT was organised by NGOs Abralow Memorial Multipurpose Society and the Youth Mission for Clean River (YMCR), in collaboration with the AITS, and was supported by the Itanagar Smart City Development Corporation Limited.
YMCR chairman SD Loda in his address emphasised “the pressing need to empower the youths for sustainable development goals,” and said that “the preservation of nature, including pristine forests and water bodies, is paramount.”
He urged the younger generation to play an active role in ensuring a cleaner and greener future.
Underlining that nature and its resources are precious and finite, and the responsibility to safeguard them falls heavily on the youths, he said that the collective efforts of the younger generation are the key to addressing environmental challenges.
Speaking as the trainer for a session titled ‘Promoting sustainable habits’, PampEarth CEO Anurag Shrivastava highlighted sustainable practices that individuals can adopt in their daily lives to protect the environment.
He dwelt on the significance of “small but meaningful changes, like reducing waste and conserving energy,” and demonstrated hands-on activities on the practical ways to lead a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
Delving into the topic of recycling waste, he showcased various eco-friendly products made from recycled materials, demonstrating their environmental benefits. His practical demonstration illustrated how recycling can contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.
Shrivastava encouraged the attendees to actively participate in recycling initiatives and reduce their ecological footprint.
During a technical session on ‘kachrey pe charcha’ (discussion on waste), Guwahati (Assam)-based NGO Midway Journey founder Shirshendu Das took the audience on a journey into the world of waste management.
He presented a comprehensive understanding of the various types of waste and their severe consequences on the environment, wildlife, and aquatic life.
Das discussed the need for responsible waste management and the importance of sustainable practices in safeguarding the surroundings. He also highlighted how improper disposal of waste not only harms the environment but also poses risks to various ecosystems.
He urged the attendees to take responsibility for their waste and advocate eco-friendly waste disposal practices.
The programme concluded with awarding of certificates to the participants, recognising their commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable living.
Yagamso River Rejuvenation Project (YRRP) coordinator Prem Taba delivered the closing remarks, reiterating the importance of the knowledge gained during the programme, and urged the participants to apply these insights in their daily lives.
YRRP assistant coordinator Keyom Doni said that “the training programme is a larger part of the YRRP’s mission to clean Itanagar’s polluted Yagamso river.”
