Awantipora: The Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST), observed Ozone Day with a panel discussion on “Fixing Air Pollution for Climate Change.” An Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between IUST and the People’s Environmental Council (PEC) to address environmental and sustainability challenges, with a particular focus on Disaster Preparedness, Wetlands and Water Bodies, Water and Air Quality, Forests, Wildlife and Biodiversity, and Waste Management was also signed on this occasion.
The event was organized by the Dean of Students, IUST, and sponsored by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India, brought together a distinguished panel of experts and representatives from various institutions and organizations. Experts from University of Kashmir, SKUAST-Kashmir, Department of Agriculture Kashmir, J&K Pollution Control Committee, Brick Kiln Association, Budgam, J&K High Court, Department of Ecology, Environment & Remote Sensing J&K, Green Citizen Council, Water Resources Regulatory Authority, Srinagar and People’s Environmental Council, Kashmir participated shared their insights on the theme of the program. The deliberations led to a consensus on forwarding the event’s recommendations to pertinent authorities for tackling air pollution in Kashmir.
Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor IUST and Chief Guest of the program emphasized the critical need for collaborative efforts in addressing air quality issues in Kashmir, foreseeing potential challenges if not addressed collectively. The event was attended by Prof. Manzoor A. Malik (Dean Academic Affairs), Prof. Naseer Iqbal (Registrar), Prof. Lily Want (Dean Outreach), Prof. Javid Hussain (Professor of Practice), Dr. Asifa Baba (Dean Students), Mr. Iftikhar Ahmed Kukroo (Chief Engineer), Advocate Vaseem Aslam, Prof. Humayun Rasheed, Prof. Fayaz Ahmed Lone (SKUAST K), M. A. Dar (School of Law, Kashmir University), Engineer Aijaz Rasool, Faiz Bakshi (Environmental activist), Dr. Aijaz Ahmad Qureshi (Coordinator of Biodiversity Park) and other experts along with the university officials, staff, and faculty members.
The participants and student winners of the painting competition from Mantaqi Memorial Waqf Higher Secondary School, Doon International School, Srinagar, Iqra International School, Hanfia Model Institute Kulgam, Hajahad Public School, Sabir Abdullah Public School, Government High School, Awantipora, Umer Memorial Institute, held on 19 September on the theme ‘Ozone Day’ were also felicitated during the program.

KR Desk