As India is celebrating Swachhta Pakhwada between 1st to 15th September, the Centre for the Study of Social Inclusion (CSSI), Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), and Haryali Centre for Rural Development in association with the Department of Environmental Science, Department of Sanitation, and Department of Horticulture of JMI organised a day-long Conference on “Green & Clean Delhi: Challenges & Prospects for Sustainable Development” on September 12, 2024 at Dr. M. A. Ansari Auditorium of the university.
The Inaugural Session of the conference was convened by Dr. Mujib and Prof. Tanuja, Hony. Director of the CSSI, JMI felicitated guests and delivered the welcome address. Prof. Mohammad Shakeel, Officiating Vice Chancellor, JMI, delivered the inaugural address and key addresses were made by Dr. Ravendra Singh (Advisor, Haryali), Prof. Jameel Kazmi, Vice Chancellor, Maulana Azad University. The Chief Guest, Dr. Heera Lal (IAS), Special Secretary, U.P. Government, also addressed the gathering by highlighting the significance of water conservation. Mr. Nasim Haider, Officiating Registrar, JMI also delivered a speech focusing on sustainable infrastructural development.
Prof Mohammad Shakeel, Offg. Vice Chancellor, emphasized on the significance of greenery at the University. He said “At JMI, we recognize the critical importance of addressing these environmental challenges. ‘Clean and Green Delhi’, is an ideal and necessary endeavour for the future. This conference aims to bring together different perspectives, discuss actionable solutions, and foster a collective commitment to building a cleaner, greener, and healthier Delhi. As an institution of higher learning, JMI has a unique role in this endeavour. Universities are not just centres of education but also crucibles of innovation and change. We are responsible for actively contributing to creating sustainable urban environments through research, education, and community engagement.”
Esteemed speakers in the sessions shared their insights on sustainable development.
The conference featured three key technical sessions on the following themes:
Technical Session-I ‘Policy Making and Implementation’: This session addressed the need for cohesive policies to effectively respond to Delhi’s environmental challenges. Lively discussions took place on the role of government, private sector, and civil society in promoting sustainable practices.
Technical Session-II ‘Air, Water, and Energy Conservation’: Experts in this session shared insights on innovative approaches to conserve natural resources, focusing on reducing air and water pollution, enhancing renewable energy adoption, and ensuring clean and green urban development.
Technical Session-III ‘Protection of Environment and Health: Adherence to Legal Rules and Regulations’ – This session emphasized on the importance of strict enforcement of environmental laws, highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental protection and public health. It also stressed the significance of community engagement and education in promoting compliance and environmental stewardship.
A Panel Discussion moderated by Dr. Arvind Kumar, CSSI, JMI, involved prominent experts such as Prof Hina Ziya, Prof. Sirajuddin Ahmad, Dr. Mani Singh, and Ms. Kalyanee Paranjape and many more who discussed innovative strategies for environmental protection and sustainability.
The conference underscored the urgent need to tackle Delhi’s environmental challenges. It emphasized the role of collective action and interdisciplinary collaboration. Participants discussed the necessity of strong and enforceable policies to mitigate pollution and foster sustainable development. The conference also produced the following outcomes:
● Recommendations for enhancing policy frameworks and governance structures aimed at improving air quality, conserving water, and promoting renewable energy.
● Strengthening partnerships between academic institutions, government agencies, and NGOs to develop and implement sustainable urban planning strategies.
● Plans to launch extensive public awareness and community engagement campaigns to educate citizens on their role in achieving a clean and green Delhi.
The Exhibitions with the help of different Self Help Groups (SHGs) and NGOs like Sanjivani SHG, Astitva SHG, Navkiran Organization, Navkiran Organization, Economic Development SHG, Naya Rasta, Blessing NGO, Badhte Kadam, Rahat Welfare Foundation, Power SHG, were also showcased outside the auditorium focusing on the theme of the conference. The exhibition by showcasing innovative solutions, eco-friendly practices and featuring artwork, inspired by nature, recycling, and sustainability emphasized on the promotion of sustainability, eco-friendly practices, and raising awareness about environmental conservation. The CSSI team comprising Mr. Abu Faizan, Ms. Sufia Nizami, Dr. Badre Afshan, Dr Masroor, Mr. Farhan, Dr. Ahtisham, Mr. Maiz Ali & Mr. Azharuddeen made great efforts to make this event a great success.
The conference concluded with a Valedictory Session, chaired by Prof. Tanuja. Key speeches were delivered by Mrs. Nazia Danish (Councillor, Zakir Nagar) and Ms. Ariba Khan (Councillor, Abul Fazal Enclave).
The conference ended with a call for action to all stakeholders to intensify efforts towards creating a sustainable and liveable city. The organizers hoped that the discussions and deliberations would lead to tangible steps in preserving Delhi’s environment for future generations. The formal vote of thanks was presented by Mohammad Yusuf, Executive Director, Haryali Centre for Rural Development, New Delhi.