Bandipora, June 6: In a remarkable demonstration of environmental activism and youth engagement, the Kashmir Environmental and Social Organization (KESO) marked World Environment Day 2025 with large-scale celebrations across four different locations in Bandipora district. Hundreds of students, educators, and community members actively participated in a series of events aimed at spreading awareness on this year’s theme: “Beat Plastic Pollution.”
Under the direct supervision of its Chairperson Mtr. Shabnum Kounser, KESO led programmes at Army Goodwill School Bandipora, Emergent Modern School of Education Quil Muqam, Shah-i-Hamdan English Medium School Bandipora, and other venues, turning World Environment Day into a vibrant campaign for sustainability and collective responsibility.
At Emergent Modern School of Education Quil Muqam, the celebrations were spearheaded by Senior Vice Chairman of KESO, Mr. Ishfaq Ahmad. A rally was flagged off from the local bus stand to Shah Mohalla, where enthusiastic students, staff, and KESO volunteers marched with placards and slogans to highlight the environmental challenges posed by plastic pollution. Mr. Bilal Rehmani, Principal of the host school, praised the initiative and applauded KESO’s efforts to bring environmental education to tribal students in remote areas.
At the Army Goodwill School Bandipora, a variety of events including debate competitions, a student rally, a plantation drive, skit performances, and a poster-making competition were held under the direct oversight of Chairperson Mtr. Shabnum Kounser. She took a round of the school campus to view the posters made by students, appreciating their creativity and concern for environmental issues. “These young minds are the custodians of our planet’s future. Today, they have shown remarkable awareness and artistic expression,” she said.
Meanwhile, Shah-i-Hamdan English Medium School Bandipora saw equally vibrant celebrations led by KESO front-line members Malik Anayatullah, Feroz Ahmad, and Momin Ahmad, in collaboration with the school’s Principal, Mr. Shabir Ahmad. The programme included painting competitions, a cleanliness drive, and a multi-house rally. Students, teachers, and even local residents participated with great enthusiasm, making it a community-wide event focused on environmental preservation.
KESO President Mtr. Rukhsana Maqbool, in her message, lauded the efforts of the volunteers, members, and school authorities who came together to organize Environment Day activities on such a large scale. “Our success lies in the unity and commitment of every individual involved. This event is a testament to what collective resolve can achieve when it comes to protecting our environment,” she said.
With participation from grassroots communities and an emphasis on education and awareness, KESO’s Environment Day initiative has not only spotlighted the pressing issue of plastic pollution but also inspired hundreds to become agents of change in their localities..