‘Tawi Festival’ concludes with workshop on ‘Leave No Trace’

A dignitary addressing during a workshop at University of Jammu on Monday.
A dignitary addressing during a workshop at University of Jammu on Monday.

Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Mar 4: 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) here today organized a one-day workshop on ‘Leave No Trace: Sustainable Waste Management Practices’ with special focus on Himalayan ecosystem.

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The workshop marked conclusion of the ongoing four-day long ‘Tawi Festival’ organized by AMML to showcase regional diversity and culture of Jammu.
Prof. Prakash Antahal, Dean Students Welfare was chief guest on the occasion and he hailed the University for its proactive approach by partnering with AAML on addressing the critical issue by focusing on environment conservation in Himalayas.
Dr. Jyotsana Singh, Director, AMML was guest of honour and she expressed her gratitude to the University for its leadership role in organizing and facilitating multiple sessions during the ongoing Tawi Festival.
Dr. Deepika Slathia highlighted the Himalayan ecosystem’s diverse landscapes, rich biodiversity and cultural significance 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, emphasizing their potential to safeguard the natural and cultural values as well as traditions of Himalayan communities.
The keynote lecture was delivered by Akshay Shah, Director Hanifl Centre for Outdoor Education and Environmental Study, Uttarakhand.
He provided a comprehensive overview of the importance of Himalayan ecosystem and discussed in detail about threats being faced by it.
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 vote of thanks.
Among others present in the workshop were Prof. Monika Chadha, Prof. Parmil Kumar, Dr. Anil Gupta, Dr. Garima Gupta, Dr. Ranjan Sharma, Dr. Ravinder Sharma, Rozi, S.M Sahni, Arvind Kotwal, Sumit Sharma and members from the civil society.
Proceedings of various sessions of the workshop were conducted by Karman from Department of Journalism, University of Jammu.