Let's live eco-friendly every day - Prof. P. Subrahmanya Yadpadithaya

Mangalore: Department of Geography of Mangalore University and Mangal Yojana – Village Adoption Program organized "International Forest Day" and "World Water Day" in the varsity campus on Tuesday.

Chief Conservator of Forests and K. C. D. C. Corporate Managing Director Prakash S.Netalkar, in his keynote address, said that more than 1.6 billion people around the world depend on forests for breath, food or livelihood. Forests play a vital role in preventing soil erosion, enriching and conserving soil. Helps protect communities from landslides and floods. Deforestation also affects climate change, agriculture production. It is need of the hour to everyone join hands in afforestation along with forest conservation,” he said.

Mangalore University Vice Chancellor Prof. P. Subrahmanya Yadapadithaya in his presidential speech opined that we should live environment friendly. World Water Day 2023 is being celebrated with the central theme of 'Accelerating Change'. “Certainly, there is a need to further accelerate water conservation strategies. Participation at individual, organizational and government levels is important,” he said.

Mangala Project Coordinator Prof. Prashanth Naika, in his introductory speech, said that the number of people dying from cancer and respiratory-problems due to environmental pollution is increasing at an alarming rate. We are experiencing untimely rains, droughts, famines, sea erosion, droughts, occurring more often in recent years. It is the duty of every citizen to protect the environment. 

As part of the program, water bowls were kept for the birds in the campus. Fruit bearing plants were distributed to the public and students. A handbook of eco-friendly activities in forest and water conservation was released. Saplings were planted.

Geography Department Coordinator Prof. Dasharatha P. Angadi welcomed guests and spoke about the background and importance of World Water Day and International Day of Forests.

Pujith Kumar D.P extended vote of thanks. Dr. Anushree M and Dr. Lavina mastered the ceremony.