Bajali: A climate change awareness class was held at Bajali Higher Secondary School in Assam’s Pathsala, in the presence of senior government officials and environmental experts, with the aim of sensitizing students to the growing impacts of climate change and the need for sustainable living.
The programme was attended by M.K. Yadava, IFS (Retd), Special Chief Secretary, Environment, Forest & Climate Change Department; Mridul Kumar Das, ACS, District Commissioner, Bajali; Anjan Sarma, President, Mahabahu Climate Change; Sami Choudhury, Senior Forest Officer; Ranjit Ram, Divisional Forest Officer; Bitupan Hazarika, IS, Barpeta–Bajali; Asfaque Laskar, ACS, Assistant Commissioner, Bajali; and the Director of Manas National Park.
Addressing the students, M.K. Yadava stressed the urgency of collective action to combat climate change. “Climate change is no longer a future threat; it is a present reality. Students must understand their role in protecting forests, wildlife, and natural resources. The future of the environment lies in the hands of the upcoming generation. Whatever profession you choose—doctor, engineer, businessman, or officer—you must think responsibly about the environment. You are the sentinels of tomorrow,” he said.
He also interacted with students and encouraged them to actively participate in environmental conservation and awareness initiatives.
District Commissioner Mridul Kumar Das highlighted the importance of community participation in sustainable development. “Sustainable development can only be achieved when communities, especially young minds, are actively involved in environmental protection. Students should read newspapers every day to stay informed about environmental changes. Climate conditions are changing rapidly, and the situation may worsen in the next twenty years. Tree plantation today is essential to protect tomorrow,” he said.
Anjan Sarma, President of Mahabahu Climate Change, emphasized the need for awareness and behavioral change. “Small actions at the individual level, when multiplied, can bring significant change in the fight against climate change,” he remarked.
The interactive session witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and teachers. After the programme, M.K. Yadava gifted sports items, including badminton sets, cricket bats, footballs, and volleyballs, to the students, encouraging physical fitness alongside environmental responsibility.
M.K. Yadava also praised the Bajali district administration for organizing such an awareness programme for students. “Through programmes like this, students become more conscious about protecting the environment,” he said.
The programme concluded with a collective call to adopt eco-friendly practices and strengthen environmental awareness at the grassroots level to build a climate-resilient future.