Nagaland Empowerment of People through Economic Development (NEPED), in collaboration with the NSS Unit and Eco Club of Ruzhukhrie Government Higher Secondary School (RGHSS), observed World Environment Day on June 5, 2026, at the school’s Multipurpose Hall. The programme was held under the theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future – Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam,” and was followed by a plantation drive within the school premises.
Commissioner & Secretary and Team Leader, NEPED, Kovi Meyase, NCS, who attended the programme as the special guest, highlighted the importance of responsible human behaviour in preserving the environment and elaborated on the significance of World Environment Day. He stressed the need to raise awareness and take collective action to restore and protect the environment for a secure and sustainable future.
Meyase noted that climate change is a reality and urged people to learn from natural calamities such as landslides, forest fires, and water scarcity. He called upon everyone to work together in safeguarding the planet for future generations.
Providing an overview of NEPED’s objectives and initiatives, Meyase stated that the organisation has been promoting sustainable environmental practices for several decades. He observed that although Nagaland is blessed with rich biodiversity, it has witnessed a gradual decline due to increasing human intervention. Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism, citing growing community awareness and a gradual shift towards more sustainable practices.
Addressing the students, he emphasised their crucial role in environmental protection and stated that education remains one of the most powerful tools for conservation. He encouraged them to contribute individually towards preserving nature and becoming agents of positive change in society.
Senior Principal of RGHSS, A. Mughali Sema, expressed her appreciation for the collaboration with NEPED and described it as a privilege to be part of such a meaningful initiative. She urged students to recognise the importance of conserving natural resources and adopting sustainable lifestyles. Emphasising personal responsibility in environmental conservation, she remarked that even the smallest efforts can create a significant impact in the years ahead.
The programme was chaired by Moatemsu Jamir, Teacher-in-Charge of the Eco Club, RGHSS, while the vote of thanks was delivered by B. Orenvungo Yanthan, Programme Officer, NSS Unit.
The observance concluded with a plantation drive on the school campus, reaffirming the commitment of the school community and NEPED towards environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
(Morotsung Longchar, IA)

