In a vibrant celebration of nature and conservation, the Forest Department and Directorate of Education, Goa, observed Vanamahotsava 2025 at Government High School, Savarde, in Sattari on 14th July.
Hon’ble Forest Minister Shri Vishwajit P. Rane presided over the event and emphasized the importance of preserving Goa’s biodiversity. As part of the initiative, he participated in the ceremonial planting of fruiting trees, promoting the need to integrate eco-friendly habits in educational spaces.
A key highlight of the event was the flagging off of the Seedling Distribution Van and Wildlife Rescue Van, symbolizing the state’s commitment to conservation and proactive environmental education. These vans will play a crucial role in spreading green cover across Goa and responding to animal rescue calls.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, forest officials, and community members who pledged to protect and nurture nature. With a clear focus on instilling environmental values from a young age, Vanamahotsava 2025 became a memorable milestone for the school and the region.
The celebration not only promoted greenery but also sowed seeds of awareness and responsibility in the hearts of Goa’s future generations.
New Delhi – In an inspiring and ambitious move to engage young Indians in climate action, the Children Islamic Organisation (CIO) has launched a nationwide campaign titled “Hands in Soil, Hearts with India”, aiming to involve one million children in planting and caring for trees between 25 June and 26 July 2025.
The initiative was unveiled at a press conference held at the Jamaat-e-Islami Hind headquarters, where CIO leaders Ramla, Syed Nabigh Azhaan Husaini, and Mohd Humaid outlined the vision behind this powerful environmental campaign.
A Movement Rooted in Care and Responsibility
Speaking at the event, Ramla emphasized the urgency of the mission:
“The Earth is getting hotter, forests are vanishing, and the air we breathe is getting worse. Children can help change this. When they plant and care for trees, they’re not just helping the environment — they’re learning compassion, responsibility, and love for nature.”
CIO, a national platform for the all-round development of children based on Islamic values, believes that environmental stewardship must begin in childhood. With this campaign, the organization seeks to instill a deep sense of connection to the Earth, framed as an act of national service and spiritual duty.
How the Campaign Will Work
According to Syed Nabigh Azhaan Husaini, the campaign will unfold through tree-planting activities in diverse locations — schools, madrasas, mosques, community parks, and even in front of homes. Each child will be encouraged to:
Name their tree
Care for it like a friend
Document the journey through drawings, poetry, crafts, or journals
The campaign will be further enriched by creative, educational activities, including:
Green Pledge ceremonies
Friday sermons focused on environmental responsibility
Nature walks
Art, poetry, and storytelling competitions
Short videos and reels on social media to spread awareness
“We want this to be meaningful and fun,” Husaini explained. “This is about building a generation that feels deeply connected to the Earth.”
Partnerships and Public Engagement
To ensure the campaign has impact and longevity, CIO is working with government departments to:
Supply healthy saplings
Identify suitable planting sites
Offer resources on local ecology
Support long-term tree survival and growth
Mohd Humaid added that these collaborations are critical to scaling the movement and sustaining the green impact. He also unveiled campaign slogans designed to inspire children and communities alike:
🌱 “Where every child plants a tree, a greener world will bloom!” 🌿 “A leaf shall smile – every day shall bring greenery!”
A Call to Action: Be a Tree Hero, Be a Green Champion
In a passionate appeal, CIO leaders called on students, teachers, parents, school heads, and religious leaders to join the movement and make this green revolution a collective act of national pride.
“Let this movement grow beyond numbers into a habit of caring for the Earth,” they urged. “Imagine the power of a million trees planted and nurtured by a million children. That’s not just environmental action — that’s hope rooted in the soil.”
They also invited media outlets, civil society, and environmental organizations to help amplify the message and support children in their green missions.
Want to Join the Movement?
If you or your school, madrasa, or organization would like to participate in the “Hands in Soil, Hearts with India” campaign, reach out to your local CIO chapter or visit http://www.cio-india.org/greenheroes for more details, resources, and updates.
Morpirla, Goa | June 21, 2025 – The campus of PM SHRI Government High School Morpirla echoed with positivity and purpose as students, teachers, and parents came together to celebrate International Yoga Day 2025 with great enthusiasm and heartfelt participation.
The celebration commenced with a soulful prayer, setting a serene tone for the day. Attendees then gathered to watch the special address delivered by the Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose message emphasized the importance of yoga in today’s fast-paced world and its role in personal and planetary well-being.
Taking the stage, Headmistress Maria Murena Miranda offered a compelling speech that resonated deeply with the audience. She shed light on this year’s official theme, “Yoga for One Health, One Earth”, emphasizing how yoga acts as a bridge between individual well-being and environmental harmony.
“Yoga is not merely an exercise. It is a way of life that aligns the body, mind, and nature,” she said. “By fostering physical and mental wellness, yoga also contributes to a unified global movement towards a healthier, more sustainable planet.”
Headmistress Miranda encouraged all present—especially the youth—to embrace yoga not just as a daily practice, but as a philosophy of conscious living. She urged everyone to take responsibility for both their inner peace and the health of the planet, emphasizing that strengthening the mind-body connection is key to building a more resilient and compassionate society.
The event also included a group yoga session where students and teachers practiced asanas and breathing exercises together, guided by trained instructors. Parents joined in, creating a powerful moment of intergenerational unity and shared learning.
As the day concluded, the sense of calm, joy, and collective purpose was palpable—a reminder that even small communities can be part of a global movement for wellness and sustainability.
Pilgao, Goa | June 5, 2025 – In a meaningful celebration of World Environment Day, JCI Pilgao Elite, in collaboration with the Goa State Biodiversity Board, organized a series of impactful activities aimed at spreading environmental awareness and engaging the local youth in climate action.
This year’s theme, “Ending Plastic Pollution Globally”, inspired a full-day program that combined hands-on activities, creative expression, and public speaking to emphasize the importance of sustainability and plastic-free living.
The event began with a tree plantation ceremony at the historic Mahadev Temple in Pilgao. Members of JCI Pilgao Elite, along with community participants, came together to plant saplings and promote greener surroundings. The initiative reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and community involvement.
Elocution Competition: Young Voices Speak Out
Following the plantation drive, an elocution competition was held for students from 5th to 7th standard, centered around the theme “Ending Plastic Globally.” A total of 15 students showcased their oratory skills, raising their voices on the pressing issue of plastic pollution and suggesting creative solutions for a plastic-free future.
The competition was judged by JC Shruti Parab Desai of JCI Bicholim, who also took the opportunity to encourage and motivate the students to become active agents of change. The competition served as a platform for young minds to express their concerns, hopes, and visions for a cleaner planet.
Bag Painting Competition: Creativity Meets Sustainability
To further engage students and reinforce the message, a cloth bag painting competition was organized for students from 8th to 10th standard. Also based on the year’s theme, this activity saw another 15 students unleash their artistic talents in designing eco-friendly messages on reusable cloth bags.
The competition was judged by Mudrika Chari and Saisha Fulari, who applauded the efforts and creativity of the participants. In solidarity with the students, JCI Pilgao Elite members themselves joined in, painting cloth bags to show their support for the cause.
Program Highlights & Organizers
The event was smoothly compered by JC Saujanya Parab Gaonkar, ensuring a seamless flow of activities. The overall program was directed and led by Project Director JC Jyotsna Parab Gaonkar, whose coordination brought together the various elements of the day’s celebration.
A formal vote of thanks was delivered by Secretary JC Swati Shirodkar, who appreciated the efforts of all participants, judges, volunteers, and guests.
Also present and actively involved were JCI members: JC Shanaya Narvekar, JC Siya Parab Gaonkar, JC Diya Parab Gaonkar, JC Ritu Kavlekar, JC Ankita Walavalkar, and JC Pooja Narvekar, all of whom played vital roles in the success of the event.
Leadership Acknowledgment
The program was held under the leadership of:
JC Jayesh Valavalkar, President
JC Swati Naik Shirodkar, Secretary
JC Jyotsna Parab Gaonkar, Project Director
Their dedication and collaborative spirit were evident in the event’s success, making this World Environment Day not just a celebration, but a call to action.
A Small Step, A Big Message
The event concluded with smiling faces, painted bags, planted trees, and most importantly—an inspired community of young students who now understand the power of their voice and actions in protecting the planet.
JCI Pilgao Elite continues to uphold its mission of building better communities through civic engagement, education, and sustainability-focused initiatives.
On the occasion of World Environment Day 2025, PM SHRI GHS Morpirla united under the global theme “One Mission – End Plastic Pollution”, emphasizing the urgent need to tackle the escalating environmental, social, economic, and health risks posed by plastic waste.
The celebration was not just a one-day event—it was a call to action for every student, teacher, and community member to commit to a more sustainable future. The school organized a series of engaging and meaningful activities to promote environmental awareness, sustainability, and responsible lifestyle choices among the youth.
In a heartwarming initiative, the school launched the second edition of “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”, encouraging students to plant a tree in honor of their mothers. This symbolic act beautifully connected the idea of nurturing nature with the love and respect for one’s mother. Students eagerly took part in the Tree Plantation Drive, planting saplings across the school campus and pledging to take care of them.
🐦 Bird Feeder Craft Activity
In a creative effort to support biodiversity, students made eco-friendly bird feeders using recycled materials. These feeders will be placed around the campus and at students’ homes to provide food and shelter for local bird species, fostering a sense of responsibility towards even the smallest creatures in our ecosystem.
🎨 Poster Making Competition
A poster-making competition was held where students showcased their artistic skills and environmental awareness. The posters depicted powerful messages around ending plastic pollution, conserving nature, and building a sustainable world. This activity sparked important conversations about environmental issues among students.
💃 Dance Performance – “Reduce Plastic”
Through an energetic and expressive dance performance, students highlighted the importance of reducing plastic consumption. The performance creatively illustrated the consequences of plastic pollution and inspired the audience to adopt eco-friendly alternatives in their daily lives.
🎵 Musical Tribute – “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”
Adding a melodious touch to the celebration, students sang a beautiful song dedicated to the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign. The lyrics emphasized the importance of planting trees, conserving nature, and building a greener planet for future generations.
🌱 A Step Toward Sustainable Living
Throughout the event, emphasis was placed on the broader environmental challenges including climate change, ecosystem degradation, and unsustainable resource use. Discussions and activities helped students understand the interconnectedness of these issues and the role they can play in mitigating them.
The celebration successfully ignited a spark of environmental consciousness among students and staff. By combining education, creativity, and action, PM SHRI GHS Morpirla continues to nurture environmentally responsible citizens and pave the way for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future.
