Bandipora, July 24: In a bid to promote environmental awareness and appreciation for nature, the Eco-club of Hassan Khoyihami Memorial (HKM) Government Degree College in Bandipora successfully organized a two-day Nature Camp under the theme "Know Your Surroundings."
An official spokesperson said the event, held in collaboration with District Forest Division Bandipora and Wildlife Research Conservation Foundation, took place at Chitternar Forest Division Bandipora from 19th to 20th July 2023.
He said a group of 16 students, comprising both boys and girls, enthusiastically participated in the camp that was led by Prof. Mohammad Abass Bhat, Program Officer of the Eco-Club and accompanied by Prof. Naseer Ahmad Khan from the Department of English, Dr. Najeeb Ahmad from the Department of Environmental Science, and Ms. Ziya Begum,
The primary objective of the Nature Camp was to provide students with an immersive experience in natural surroundings while imparting essential knowledge about conservation and preservation of natural habitats.
Spokesperson said the college aimed to cultivate green leadership qualities among the participants and instill in them a sense of appreciation and empathy towards the environment and its resources.
The camp kicked off at 10:30 am with a warm welcome extended by Program Coordinators, Dr. Mehreen Khaleel, Tahir Ahmad, and their team.
After a seamless registration process, the students engaged in an interactive session, during which Dr. Mehreen and Tahir enthusiastically briefed them about the camp's purpose and the planned activities.
To begin their journey into the world of forests, the students were taken to the Museum at Forest Training School Chiternar. “They were guided by Amir Ahmad, the In-charge Forester, and the WRCF team, who showcased an array of forest-related articles, artifacts, and models, enlightening the students about the importance of preserving biodiversity and natural heritage” spokesperson added.
During the afternoon session, the participants visited the Nursery unit and Oak unit of the Forest Division Chiternar.
Under the guidance of staff, the students received comprehensive insights into the significance of the Nursery unit and the techniques involved in nurturing a diverse range of saplings, including ornamental and medicinal plants.
Additionally, they had the opportunity to witness the beauty of the Oak tree section, where they encountered various flora and fauna, including playful monkey troops.
As the day progressed, the students were trained in setting up tents in the wilderness. “As the sun began to set, they indulged in an open field Art session amidst the serene and tranquil forest environment”.
The young artists skillfully captured their observations and imaginations of the natural world on paper.
In the evening, the campers gathered to watch documentaries on biodiversity, forests, and environmental conservation, expertly prepared by the Forest Department and WRTF. The students also actively participated in a Puzzle game session and Moth session, where they deepened their understanding of the region's local biodiversity.
The night came alive with the preparation of a bonfire/campfire, offering a perfect setting for relaxation and sharing beautiful moments of the day.
The following morning, the participants, eager and refreshed, rose at 5:00 am to embark on the second day of the camp. After completing their morning routines and warming up, they engaged in a discussion session during breakfast.
Equipped with Pocket Guides on birds and other fauna, along with necessary instructions, the group set out for a Nature Walk through the dense woods towards the Boothu forests. Trekking through the forest, they observed the wonders of nature and enjoyed light refreshments amidst the lush greenery.
After a remarkable journey spanning approximately 12 kilometers, the group returned to the base camp around 3:00 pm, exhausted yet content with the enriching experience.
The eventful Nature Camp concluded with a valedictory session, where Mudasir Mehmood, the District Forest Officer (DFO) of Bandipora, honored the participants with certificates of appreciation.
Expressing gratitude to the Forest officials, WRCF team, experts, staff, and students, the camp organizers presented a formal vote of thanks.
The students expressed immense satisfaction with the camp's organization and applauded the efforts of Principal Dr. Masood Ahmad Malik for arranging such an enlightening event.
Grateful for the support provided by the accompanying staff and camp organizers, the students bid farewell to the serene forest surroundings at 5:00 pm as the camp officially came to an end with the decamping of tents.
