The Bilaliya Educational Institute, Lal Bazar, Srinagar marked a significant milestone by inaugurating its much-anticipated Eco Visionary Club, an initiative dedicated to environmental protection, the preservation of Kashmir’s water bodies, and addressing ecological degradation in the valley.
The event was graced by Dr. G.N. Itoo (KAS), Director of School Education Kashmir, as the Chief Guest, joined by an illustrious panel of dignitaries, including Farooq Geelani, Former Chief Conservator of Forests (IFS) & Parton NLCO, G.N. Var, President of the Private Schools Association of Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK), Peerzada Fayaz, Former President TAAK, Zahoor Qari, Vice Chairman NLCO, Farooq Kuthoo (Executive Member, KCCI), Muhammad Shahid (Director, Crescent Public School), Ghulam Mohammad Lone (Chairman, Birla Open Minds), Younis Bhat (Director, Birla Open Minds), Ms. Syed Ishrat Lateef, ZEO Hawal & Officials from the education department, teachers, and representatives of various schools also participated.
The program was anchored by Principal Nissar Ahmad of Bilaliya Educational Institute.
The Eco Visionary Club aims to promote environmental education, safeguard Kashmir’s water bodies, and encourage community action against ecological challenges.
Speaking on the occasion, Chairman of Bilaliya Educational Institute, Manzoor Wangnoo, emphasized “We have the responsibility to educate students about the importance of protecting our environment. This initiative ensures that future generations are equipped with the knowledge and tools to preserve nature and address environmental challenges effectively.”
Highlighting the club’s significance, Farooq Geelani remarked “This initiative is a commendable step toward addressing the ecological degradation in our valley. Such collaborations between schools and government departments can amplify awareness and impact.”
PSAJK President, Dr. G.N. Var said that underlined the integration of environmental education into the curriculum, stating “Environmental protection should not be a choice but a priority in education. We must inculcate this ethos among students by including it as part of the academic framework and evaluating their contributions.”
Ghulam Mohammad Lone, Chairman of Birla Open Minds, added “Educational institutions are the pillars of change. By establishing the Eco Visionary Club, Bilaliya Educational Institute has set a benchmark for others to follow in nurturing eco-conscious citizens.
Farooq Kuthoo Executive Member KCCI spoke on the pivotal role of the Eco Visionary Club and the collective responsibility of the community, stating:
“Our Imams and Masajid must also play an active role in raising awareness about protecting water bodies. Tourism is the backbone of Kashmir’s economy, and it depends heavily on our pristine environment.” He also quoted environmentalist Dr. Raja Muzaffar, cautioning against inaction: “If we do not introspect and act now, the next decade could witness an ecological disaster.”
Peerzada Fayaz, Past President TAAK and State Convener Responsible Tourism Society Of India RTSOI shed light on the broader concept of eco-sustainability, emphasizing “Understanding the importance of ecology is crucial for the valley’s survival. Awareness must begin at the grassroots level, with students leading the charge.”
Chief Guest DESK Dr.G.N Itoo praised the initiative, saying “I deeply appreciate Manzoor Wangnoo Sahab and the Bilaliya Educational Institute for launching this innovative program. Schools must take a leading role in fostering environmental awareness and addressing ecological challenges.”
Dr. Itoo further elaborated on the role of educational institutions “As the Director of School Education, my priority is to ensure coordinated efforts between government and private schools for the holistic development of our students. This includes social, physical, and environmental well-being. It is imperative to take strict actions to protect our environment and revive Kashmir’s reputation as a premier tourist destination.”
The event concluded with the felicitation of Dr. G.N. Itoo for his invaluable contributions to the field of education, Tourism. A vote of thanks was delivered by the Zonal Education Officer (ZEO) Ms. Syed Ishrat Lateef, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries and participants for their active involvement in the noble cause.
The inauguration of the Eco Visionary Club stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the educational and administrative fraternity in safeguarding the environment for future generations.
Management of Birla Open Minds School and Crescent Public School at the event assured that they both will setup the Eco Clubs in their respective schools
