Speaker participates in “Himalaya: Reflections and Solutions” Seminar
By OUR STAFF REPORTER
DEHRADUN, 8 Sep: On the eve of Himalayan Day, Speaker Ritu Khanduri Bhushan attended the “Himalaya: Reflections and Solutions” seminar as the Chief Guest. The event, organised by the ‘Uttaranchal Utthan Parishad’, was held at the IRDT Auditorium, here.
The primary goal of the seminar was to engage in in-depth discussions on the environmental, social, and cultural issues of the Himalayan region and to focus on potential solutions. Experts, environmentalists and social activists presented their views and emphasised the need for collective efforts to safeguard and develop the Himalayan region.
In her speech, Ritu Khanduri Bhushan highlighted the crucial role of the Himalayas and the sensitivity of its ecosystem. She stated, “The Himalayas are not only vital for Uttarakhand but for the entire country and the world. Their prosperity and protection are directly linked not only to our environment but also to our cultural and historical heritage. This mountain range provides us with life-sustaining water, clean air, and natural resources, so our responsibility to protect it is paramount.”
The Speaker expressed concern about the impacts of climate change, deforestation, and ecological imbalances in the Himalayan region. She emphasised the importance of environmental education and public awareness, suggesting the need to implement concrete plans for the development and conservation of this area.
Special guest, former Police DGP Anil Raturi, mentioned the religious literature of the Himalayas and references in Kalidasa’s “Kumarasambhavam”. Subject matter expert Dr Mohan Panwar, Head of the Geography Department at Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna University, Srinagar, highlighted the need for research on the Himalayan Mountain ranges.
Surekha Dangwal, Vice-Chancellor of Doon University, noted that understanding the Himalayas requires learning from local rural women. Colonel Ajay Kothiyal (Retd) suggested training local youth in disaster management to handle emergencies effectively. Senior scientist Dr Bhavtesh Sharma from YSRK emphasised that environmental conservation is essential for the safety of the Himalayas.
On this occasion, Rajesh Thapliyal, Secretary of the Uttaranchal Utthan Parishad, highlighted the council’s work, while other speakers shared their views on Himalayan protection, climate change effects, and sustainable development practices. The seminar fostered a comprehensive discussion on various aspects of the region and inspired new thinking towards necessary future conservation measures.
At the conclusion of the event, the Speaker led the attendees in a pledge to commit to the prosperity and safety of the Himalayas.
The event was also attended by Prem Badakoti, Department Organiser Dhanjay, Neeraj Mittal, Anand Singh Rawat, Naresh Kulashri, DN Uniyal, Vipul Joshi, Dayanand Chandola, Surendra Mittal, Abhishek Bodai, Usha Rawat, Rakesh Singh, Madan Singh Negi, Praveen Mamgai, Prakash Kumai, among others. The seminar was conducted by Yashodanand Kothiyal and Rajesh Thapliyal.
