SRINAGAR: Environmental experts, engineers and academics on Wednesday called for stronger climate action, sustainable development policies and greater institutional collaboration to address mounting ecological challenges during a seminar organised in Srinagar to mark World Environment Day 2026.
The one-day seminar, organised by the Institution of Engineers (India), Jammu and Kashmir State Centre (IEI-JKSC), was held on the theme “A Global Call for Climate Action” and brought together professionals, researchers, students and policymakers to deliberate on climate change, environmental degradation, biodiversity loss and sustainable resource management.
Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice-Chancellor of the Islamic University of Science and Technology, stressed the need for evidence-based policy interventions and enhanced cooperation among academic institutions, professional bodies, policymakers and civil society organisations to tackle emerging environmental challenges. He underscored the importance of developing resilient and sustainable solutions for environmental protection and climate adaptation.
The seminar featured technical presentations by former Jammu and Kashmir Pollution Control Board officer Er. Khurshid Ahmad Ganai, SSM College of Engineering faculty member Dr. Rayees Ahmad Khan and former JKPDD Secretary (Technical) Er. Bashir Ahmad Dar. The speakers highlighted the growing impact of climate change in the region and discussed environmental regulations, pollution control measures, sustainable resource management, renewable energy adoption and technological innovations aimed at mitigating environmental degradation.
Earlier, IEI-JKSC Honorary Secretary Er. Irfan Ahmad Reshi introduced the programme and outlined the significance of World Environment Day, while Chairman Er. Ferdous Ahad Bhat highlighted the environmental challenges confronting societies globally, including climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss and unsustainable development patterns.
Prof. Romshoo also lauded the role of IEI-JKSC in promoting technical awareness and fostering informed dialogue on issues of environmental significance.
The programme concluded with a felicitation ceremony for the chief guest and distinguished contributors, followed by a vote of thanks delivered by Er. Irfan Ahmad Reshi.
Organisers said the seminar served as a platform for discussions on climate resilience, ecological conservation and the role of engineering and scientific innovation in advancing a greener and more sustainable future.
