Nagpur: Experts from many fields shared their thoughts at Friday’s panel discussion about Environment vs Development, held at the Institution of Engineers.
We only have one planet. Dimpal Khilwani stated at the beginning of the programme that there was no planet B.
Milind Pathak, director of Institution of Engineers said in his address that Engineers are the growth engine of the environment.
He also spoke of the Paryavaran Saathi Awards, which were presented for the first-time on Environment Day.
Secretary of Swacch Association Sharad Paliwal gave a brief overview about his organization. He explained that the Swacch Association deals with issues such as waste management, education about hygiene and sanitation, and sustainable goals. NMC offers various programmes on leaf composting, waste management park at NERI and plantation behind Symbiosis. Well water harvesting is also available. Vermi compost is designed and made for Balaji Temple. He stated that several schools and colleges have installed sanitary napkin machines.
Vasudev Mishra welcomed the guests as treasurer of Swacch Association.
Ashutosh Paturkar began a panel discussion by asking all guests questions. Ramesh Daryapurkar was the CEO of LARS Environment. He was asked about clean air and clean water. Wilson Mathew, advocate for Bombay High Court, closed his question on Indian culture and traditions with the quote: “The earth is beautiful and green, and Allah has appointed your stewards.”
Vipin Muddha was the additional commissioner CMC and urged people plant at least five trees in every home. Pradumna Shastrabhojanee (conservation architect), compared development with disaster, deprivation, and deceit in promoting structural development.
Tijender Rawal, CA economist and author, explained how development is causing severe environmental damage.
Justice (Retd), VS Sipurkar stated that we should be duty-oriented, and not right-oriented. The environment is becoming a slow poison for human beings.
Sanjay Arora, director, Shells Advt. Inc, author, spoke out about his resolve to stop drinking water from plastic bottles. He asked people to make this resolution part of their lives.
Gev Avari (ex-MP) exhorted people not to waste water or worship air.
He said that Earth Day should not be limited to April 22 but should be celebrated every day.
Madhumita Chakrabutty & group performed a dance depicting the five elements of the earth.
Vasudev Mishra closed the program with a vote for thanks.
(Reporting by Kiran Israni
