World Environment Day 2024 was celebrated on Wednesday at the MRPL Employees Recreation Centre (MERC) in Mangaluru, with a thematic focus on Land Restoration, Deforestation, and Conservation. Amai Mahalinga Naik, a Padma Shri awardee (2022) and innovative farmer from Adyanadka village in Karnataka, addressed the gathering, inspiring social responsibility. He shared his journey and highlighted efforts in finding a water source that contributed to nature conservation, encouraging students to take active roles in environmental stewardship.

Smitha Hegde, Deputy Director and Professor at NITTE, delivered a comprehensive presentation stressing the importance of preventing desertification and promoting sustainable behaviors. She urged young students to increase awareness and adopt cautious environmental practices. Vijaya Hegde, SEO of KSPCB, emphasized individual responsibility in achieving sustainability goals, using real-life pollution examples to underscore the role of children in driving positive change.