A State Level Painting Competition on Energy Conservation which was organized by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, Ministry of Power, NEEPCO, and Department of Education was held at Hotel De Oriental Grand, Kohima on 14th November 2022.

Principal Director, Thavaseelan. K, IAS, mentioned that art is a universal form of expression and increases motor skills. He said that there is a misconception that paintings and drawings only encourage creative skills, however, art is essential for physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Art is an expression of both the abstract and the real world. He told the students that art can help them discover and understand things about themselves that they never recognized before and there is immense potential in this field. He further said that the competition would give a wonderful platform to students and would boost their confidence, helping many to take it up as a career. On energy conservation, Thavaseelan said that unless everyone makes an effort to energy conservation the future of humankind looks bleak. He concluded by telling the students that they are responsible for their lives and they should have a 'goal mindset ' which will make them focus on the process of getting their particular goals in life.

Winners of the painting competition were; First place was bagged by A. Bedila from Community Education Center, Dimapur, Second prize by Keningulie Vizo from High Mountain School Dimapur, and Third by Reeva Sharma from Hope Academy School, Dimapur.

Judges at the competition encouraged the children that took part in the competition to focus on their uniqueness of being an artist and that they should always spread important messages through their artwork.

(Takumpula, IA)