Shillong: Meghalaya observed World Environment Day 2026 with a series of green initiatives aimed at promoting climate action and conservation. Across the state, government agencies, educational institutions, and community organizations joined forces for tree planting drives, cleaning campaigns, and awareness programs under the theme Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.
At the ICAR Research Complex in Umiam, Padma Shri recipient Hally War addressed students on their role in protecting natural resources. She urged the youth to take action, stating, "Encouraged students to embrace biodegradable alternatives to plastic." ICAR Director Dr. G. Kadirvel added that integrating environmental education into formal schooling is vital for a sustainable future.
Agricultural awareness also took center stage at Sohkhwai village, where the College of Post Graduate Studies in Agricultural Sciences participated in the Khet Bachao Abhiyan. Dean Dr. Dwipendra Thakuria warned against the indiscriminate use of pesticides and advocated for the preservation of Indigenous Technical Knowledge in farming.
Community participation spanned various districts. In Shillong, groups including the Dorbar Shnong and Seng Samla led a mass plantation project to mitigate urban heat. Other organizations like the Meghalaya Pensioners’ Association, the 1st MLP Battalion, and NCC cadets from PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya Umroi Cantt also contributed to the greening efforts. The NGO SPARK expanded these efforts by planting over 1,000 saplings while working with underprivileged children and seniors to ensure the long-term survival of the trees.
Academic institutions including Martin Luther Christian University and Sankardev College hosted events ranging from campus cleaning drives to documentary screenings on climate change. Additionally, Saindur Enviro Pvt. Ltd. launched a creative Tag the Tree initiative at Mawtnum Presbyterian School, where students took personal ownership of newly planted saplings.
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