Srinagar, Sep 28: Uri Foundation, a local non-governmental organisation (NGO) in collaboration with SRDE, Youth for Climate Resilience Network (YCRN), and Climate Week India 2026, with support from NHPC -II Salamabad organised a climate week celebration programme on Monday at Government Degree College (GDC) Uri.
The programme was held under the theme “Climate Resilience for Healthy Communities: Awareness and preparedness on climate change, heat waves and public health.” The event brought together students, educators to discuss the growing challenges of climate change and the need for sustainable and climate-resilient practices.
The event was graced by Dr Abdul Majeed Chalkoo, Principal GDC Uri as the chief guest. Other distinguished guests included noted environmentalist, climate justice advocate and founder of Nature Conservancy Alliance (NCA) Dr Shaikh Ghulam Rasool, law officer of NHPC -II Salamabad Uri Akshay Pannu.
The programme commenced with an introductory address by Rafiq Ahmad Khokar, who highlighted the history and establishment of Uri Foundation.
Sheikh Ghulam Rasool said, “We must urgently rethink what we call development. Development cannot be called progress when it destroys the ecological systems, cultural landscapes and climate resilience that sustain our lives and livelihoods. Unchecked and mass tourism, despite contributing less than 6 per cent to the broader livelihood economy, is placing a disproportionate burden on our fragile mountains, forests, wetlands, rivers and meadows.”
Dr Abdul Majeed Chalkoo, Principal, GDC Uri, highlighted the importance of resilience and sustainable agriculture. He stated that dependence on chemical fertilizers should be reduced and that organic fertilizers prepared from kitchen waste, cow dung and other organic materials offer an environmentally friendly alternative.
Abrar Ahmad, Chief Coordinator Uri Foundation, informed participants that YCRN and Climate Week India 2026 are organising climate awareness events across India from 27th September to 4th October.
He emphasized the importance of youth participation in climate action and community awareness initiatives. He also expressed gratitude to the guest speakers, NHPC -II Salambad Uri, Climate Week India 2026, YCRN, Government Degree College Uri, Government Girls Higher Secondary School Uri, Government Boys Higher Secondary School Uri, and all students and volunteers who contributed to the success of the programme.
Among those present on the occasion were faculty members and staff of GDC Uri, Government Girls Higher Secondary School Uri, Government Boys Higher Secondary School Uri, members of Uri Foundation, and a large number of students whose active participation added great value to the program.
