University of Jammu organizes One-day workshop on ‘Leave No Trace’

Department of Environmental Sciences, Department of Student’s welfare and School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, University of Jammu in collaboration with Amar Mahal Museum and Library (AMML) organized one-day workshop on “Leave no trace: Sustainable waste Management Practices’ with special focus on the Himalayan Ecosystem in the University. This workshop marked the conclusion of the ongoing ‘Tawi festival’ organized by Amar Mahal Museum and Library, Jammu from 1^st to 4^th March 2024 to showcase the regional diversity and culture of Jammu.

Prof Prakash Antahal, Dean Students Welfare, was the Chief Guest on the occasion. In his remarks, he applauded the University for its proactive approach in partnering with AMML on addressing this critical issue focusing on environment conservation in the Himalayas. Dr. Jyotsana Singh, Director, AMML was the Guest of Honour in the workshop and expressed her gratitude to the University for its leadership role in organizing and facilitating multiple sessions during the ongoing Tawi festival.

Dr. Deepika Slathia, formally welcomed the participants, and introduced the theme of the workshop. She highlighted the Himalayan ecosystem's diverse landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance while underscoring the urgent need for immediate attention to address the unprecedented challenges it faces and elaborated on how the principles of 'Leave No Trace' align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing their potential to safeguard the natural and cultural values as well as traditions of Himalayan communities.

The keynote lecture was delivered by Mr. Akshay Shah, Director Hanifl Centre for Outdoor Education and Environmental Study, Uttarakhand, India. He provided a comprehensive overview of the importance of the Himalayan ecosystem and discussed in detail about the threats being faced by it during the first session. In the second session, Mr. Shah divided the students into groups and tasked them with presenting their viewpoints on the seven principles of 'Leave No Trace'. The participants highlighted the challenges confronting the Himalayas as a result of unsustainable tourism practices. They proposed various measures like promoting responsible tourism initiatives, implementing eco-friendly policies and regulations, supporting local businesses and livelihoods, and raising awareness among tourists.

Dr. Suvidha Khanna, presented the formal vote of thanks. Among others present in the workshop included Prof. Monika Chadha, Prof. Parmil Kumar, Dr. Anil Gupta, Dr. Garima Gupta, Dr. Ranjan Sharma, Dr. Ravinder Sharma, Ms. Rozi,  Mr. S.M. Sahni, Mr. Arvind Kotwal, Mr. Sumit Sharma, and members from the civil society. Total 80 participants from the Department of Environmental Sciences and SHTM participated in the workshop. The proceedings of various sessions of the workshop were conducted by Ms. Karman from the Department of Journalism, University of Jammu .