Chatra observed World Environment Day on Friday with a series of events including a prabhat pheri, plantation drive, oath-taking ceremony, and a felicitation program. The highlight of the day was the recognition of Vikas Kumar Singh, principal of Upgraded Middle School, Puraini (Mayurhand block), for his innovative use of technology in environmental education.
Events and Participants
Organized under the aegis of the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department, Government of Jharkhand, the day began with an awareness rally from Jataraibagh Chowk to Eco Park, Chatra. Students, officials, and employees participated in the rally. The chief guest was DC Ravi Anand, accompanied by SP Animesh Naithani, north forest division officer Rahul Meena, south forest division officer Mukesh Kumar, additional collector Arvind Kumar, and SDPO Sunny Vardhan.
Plantation and Pledge
At Eco Park, participants planted saplings and took a pledge to protect the environment, conserve natural resources, and promote biodiversity. The oath emphasized the collective responsibility towards a greener future.
Felicitation of Vikas Kumar Singh
During the felicitation ceremony, Principal Singh was honored for developing a barcode-based QR code system for trees on his school campus. By scanning the barcodes placed on trees, students and visitors can access detailed information about each tree, including species, age, uses, medicinal properties, and environmental importance. DC Ravi Anand praised the initiative, calling it “an inspiring example of technology-based environmental education.” Singh, who received the award from DFO Mukesh Kumar, expressed his happiness at being recognized for his work. He could not reach the venue on time but was grateful for the acknowledgment.
The event underscored the importance of integrating technology with environmental conservation to educate the younger generation.
