Mysuru: Environmental organisations, students, conservationists and Forest Department officials came together to celebrate Parisara Habba at Aranyabhavan in Mysuru on Saturday. Organised in connection with World Environment Day, the event focused on creating environmental awareness and encouraging citizens to actively participate in conservation efforts.
Festival highlights need for environmental protection
The event aimed to inspire individuals to adopt environmentally responsible practices and contribute towards protecting natural resources. Participants emphasised that environmental conservation requires collective action from citizens, communities, educational institutions and government agencies.
The gathering brought together students from schools and colleges, environmental activists and experts who shared their views on sustainability and the importance of preserving forests and biodiversity.
Forest department outlines afforestation targets
Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF), Mysuru Territorial Division, K. Paramesha inaugurated the programme and highlighted the state’s ambitious afforestation goals.
He stated that, in accordance with Supreme Court directions, Karnataka is expected to plant five crore saplings over the next two to three years to enhance green cover across the state.
Of the total target, around two crore saplings are planned for Bengaluru, while Mysuru has been assigned a target of 11 lakh saplings. He also noted that regular audits are conducted to monitor the survival rate of planted trees.
According to him, achieving the targets would require an integrated approach involving government departments, environmental groups and citizens. He assured that the Forest Department would extend full support for tree plantation drives and conservation initiatives.
Experts stress collective responsibility
Environmentalist Parashuramegowda of Parisarakkaagi Naavu addressed the gathering and stressed the importance of sustained efforts from individuals, society and government institutions to safeguard the environment.
The event was coordinated by Sarah Misra of Reap Benefit, who guided various sessions aimed at promoting environmental consciousness among participants.
Speakers highlighted the need for long-term behavioural changes and community participation to address environmental challenges such as deforestation, pollution and climate change.
Prominent environmentalists participate
Several leading environmentalists and members of Mysore Grahakara Parishat (MGP) took part in the programme.
Among those present were Major General Sudhir Vombatkere, founding working president of MGP Bhamy V. Shenoy, conservationist Sanjay Dattatri, sustainable development expert U.N. Ravi Kumar, retired professor Kalachannegowda and heritage expert N.S. Rangaraju.
The participants shared insights on environmental conservation, sustainable urban development and the importance of preserving natural ecosystems for future generations.
Cultural programmes add awareness message
The festival featured a range of cultural activities designed to engage participants and spread environmental awareness. Programmes included folk songs, storytelling sessions, poetry recitals and presentations by students and environmental experts.
The activities highlighted the significance of forests, biodiversity and sustainable living practices. Students actively participated in discussions on environmental challenges and solutions.
Focus on sustainable living
A major focus of the event was encouraging sustainable lifestyle choices. Participants promoted practices such as recycling and reusing materials, reducing waste generation and minimising dependence on single-use plastics.
Awareness was also created about avoiding plastic bottles, carrying reusable shopping bags instead of plastic covers and adopting environmentally friendly habits in daily life.
Organisers noted that such small individual actions, when adopted collectively, can make a significant contribution towards protecting the environment.
Event reinforces conservation message
The celebration of Parisara Habba served as a platform to reinforce the message that environmental conservation is a shared responsibility. Through discussions, cultural programmes and awareness campaigns, the event encouraged citizens to play an active role in preserving forests and maintaining ecological balance.
As Karnataka pursues ambitious afforestation targets and environmental initiatives, organisers expressed hope that increased public participation will contribute to building a greener and more sustainable future.