Patna: A special environmental awareness lecture was organised on 29 November at the College of Commerce, Arts and Science, Patliputra University, Patna, with support from the National Dolphin Research Centre and the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of Bihar. The session is part of an ongoing state-wide initiative aimed at strengthening public understanding of ecological threats and involving young people in conservation action.
Experts Warn of Climate Threats to Ganga and Wildlife
The event featured three principal speakers:
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Dr Gopal Sharma, Interim Director of the National Dolphin Research Centre
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Naveen Kumar, former General Manager, Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation
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Colonel Amit Sinha (Retd.), Indian Army
In his address, Dr Gopal Sharma outlined the growing risks faced by the Ganga river system and the endangered Ganga dolphin, emphasising how rising temperatures, altered river flows and pollution are accelerating ecological decline. He called on students to “take responsibility for safeguarding one of the world’s most fragile freshwater species.”
Former tourism official Naveen Kumar shed light on the alarming trends in local and migratory bird diversity across Bihar. He expressed concern over illegal hunting, including the disturbing practice of consuming sparrows as food, warning that such activities were pushing several species towards disappearance.
Colonel Amit Sinha spoke about the environmental, social and economic fallout of both regional and global conflicts, warning that war leaves long-lasting scars on ecosystems. He stressed that “peace and environmental protection are inseparable—and the youth must champion both.”
Students Take a Green Pledge
Around 150 students participated in the session and collectively took a pledge to protect the environment, safeguard biodiversity and promote awareness within their institutions and communities.
Speakers urged young attendees to initiate conversations on the impacts of pollution, war, deforestation and wildlife hunting, and to take the lead in developing local solutions.
Faculty Participation and Vote of Thanks
College Principal Prof Manuwar Fazal honoured the guests with a shawl and memento, marking the institution’s commitment to environmental education.
The programme was conducted by Prof Vandana Kumari, while the vote of thanks was presented by Dr Vikas Kumar Singh.
Faculty members Prof Sachchidanand, Rashmi Kumari, Rashmi Sharma, Sangeeta Kumari, Prof Santosh Kumar, Akanksha Priya, Shantwana Rani and other invited guests were present throughout the event, encouraging student engagement and participation.
