Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 12 June 2023
In a bid to celebrate the 50th anniversary of World Environment Day and promote environmental awareness among the youth and citizens of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Member of Parliament Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma organized a trek to Mount Manipur National Park (formerly known as Mount Harriet National Park). The event, held on June 11, 2023, saw the participation of approximately 200 youngsters, including Army and Navy NCC cadets and local youths.
During the trek, officials from the forest department provided valuable insights about the diverse plant and tree species found along the route, as well as information about the national parks and sanctuaries in the Islands.
Upon reaching the summit, an awareness session was conducted, focusing on various aspects of environmental protection, particularly in the face of the escalating threat of global warming.
Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma emphasized that the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are globally recognized for their remarkable biodiversity. He expressed his intention to engage the youth in activities that foster their interest and understanding of the environment, its rich biodiversity, and the importance of conservation efforts. Additionally, he highlighted the potential of such trekking experiences to promote better health and physical fitness among the younger generation.
Expressing concern about the climatic and environmental changes taking place in the Islands, Mr. Sharma attributed the delayed arrival of the South-West monsoon this year, leading to a drought-like situation, to man-made environmental imbalances.
With approximately 86% forest cover, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to 200 species of endemic and 150 species of migrant birds, butterflies, and animals, in addition to rich coral reefs, mangroves, and marine life. Mr. Sharma urged the attending youths to preserve this natural heritage that has been generously bestowed upon them.
Distinguished organizations and individuals dedicated to the conservation of island biodiversity and flora and fauna, such as Commanding Officer Army NCC Lt. Col. Pankaj Modgil, Commanding Officer Naval NCC Lt. Cdr Ankit Pant, and various representatives from research institutions and foundations, addressed the young participants. They provided valuable insights about the diverse flora and fauna found in the Islands and encouraged the youth to actively contribute to preserving the rich biodiversity.
Pamphlets and brochures containing information about the island’s avian, reptile, and amphibian species, as well as the flora and fauna, were distributed to the participants by the collaborating organizations.
As part of the event, participants took an oath under the initiative “Udne Do Humein” (Let Us Fly) to protect birds and refrain from harming them.
The enthusiastic young attendees actively engaged in learning about the environment and its protection. They raised slogans to save Mother Nature while successfully completing the trek to the third-highest peak and national park of the Islands.