World Environment Day 2026 was observed today at Umladkhur Dorbar Hall, Amlarem, in conjunction with the Golden Jubilee Celebration of Amlarem Sub-Division on the theme “Inspired by Nature, For Climate, For Our Future.” The programme was organised by the Office of the Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil), Amlarem, in collaboration with the Forest & Environment Department, Social Forestry Division, Jaintia Hills.
Shri Lahkmen Rymbui, Hon’ble Minister in charge of Education, Information & Public Relations, Law, and Revenue & Disaster Management Departments, Government of Meghalaya and MLA of 7-Amlarem Constituency attended the programme as the Chief Guest. Smt. Vevotulo Kezo, IAS, Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil), Amlarem, attended as Guest of Honour. Also present were Dr. Kaveri Rabha, MCS, Assistant Commissioner, Amlarem Sub-Division, Dr. D. Lyngdoh, BDO, Amlarem C&RD Block, officers from various departments, village authorities, students and members of the public.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Lahkmen Rymbui stressed that respect for nature has always been deeply embedded in the traditions and culture of the people of the region. He observed that the challenge before society today is to maintain a balance between developmental needs and environmental conservation. Highlighting the increasing pressures on natural resources due to population growth and expanding human needs, he called upon citizens to adopt responsible environmental practices and strengthen community participation in conservation efforts.
The Minister expressed concern over changing environmental conditions and recalled how natural water sources that were once clean and easily accessible are increasingly coming under stress. He emphasised the importance of proper waste management, reduction of littering, scientific disposal of waste, conservation of water resources and protection of forests. He urged every household to plant and nurture trees, stating that small efforts undertaken collectively can bring about meaningful environmental change.
Calling upon citizens to become active custodians of the environment, Shri Rymbui remarked that environmental conservation should not be confined to the observance of World Environment Day alone but must become an everyday responsibility. He further encouraged communities, schools and village institutions to take ownership of environmental protection and cleanliness initiatives.
Speaking on the occasion, Smt. Vevotulo Kezo, IAS, stated that environmental conservation is not merely a choice but a fundamental duty of every citizen. She emphasised the need to strike a sustainable balance between development and environmental preservation, particularly in a state like Meghalaya which is blessed with abundant natural resources and strong community institutions. She stressed that government policies alone cannot ensure environmental protection and called for greater community ownership and participation in conservation efforts.
The SDO further highlighted the importance of sustainable tourism, reduction in plastic usage, adoption of the principles of “Reduce, Reuse and Recycle”, energy conservation and environmental education among students. She noted that while plantation activities are important, long-term conservation requires sustained efforts towards protecting ecosystems and preserving natural resources for future generations.
Earlier, Shri Brightstar Bina, Range Forest Officer, Social Forestry Range, Amlarem, delivered the keynote address. He highlighted the significance of this year’s World Environment Day theme and informed that the Forest & Environment Department, through the Social Forestry Division and Social Forestry Range, Amlarem, has undertaken plantation and afforestation activities across the Sub-Division in collaboration with local communities, educational institutions and other stakeholders. He also informed that Children’s Parks have been constructed and are being maintained at Trangblang, Khonglah, Sohkha and Lamin villages to promote environmental awareness among younger generations.
Referring to the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023, Shri Bina noted that Meghalaya recorded a decline of approximately 84 square kilometres of forest cover between 2021 and 2023. While Meghalaya continues to maintain a high percentage of forest cover, he said the decline serves as a warning that forests and ecosystems are facing increasing pressure and called for collective action involving government agencies, traditional institutions, schools, community organisations and citizens to safeguard the environment for future generations.
A welcome address was delivered by Shri Kampher Pohlong, Member of the Cultural Committee of the Golden Jubilee Celebration Committee, Secretary of the Synjuk Ki Rangbah Shnong War Jaintia and Rangbah Shnong of Amlarem Village. A welcome dance was presented by the residents of Umladkhur Village.
As part of the celebration, prizes were distributed to winners of the Drawing Competition organised on June 2, 2026 at Amlarem Secondary School. A total of 34 students from 17 schools across Amlarem Sub-Division participated in the competition. Certificates of Participation were awarded to all participants.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Shri Rimon Lyngdoh, Rangbah Shnong of Umladkhur Village.
