Lieutenant Governor Inaugurates 2nd Aerosol Winter School 2024 at Central University of Jammu

Collaborative Efforts Aimed at Combating Air Pollution and Promoting Sustainable Solutions

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated the 2nd Aerosol Winter School – 'Manthan 2024' at Central University of Jammu today. The event focuses on imparting hands-on training on instrumentation, analytical techniques, and remote sensing tools for air quality studies in line with the objectives of the National Clean Air Programme.

In his address, the Lieutenant Governor lauded the collaborative efforts of the Central University of Jammu, Sindhu Central University Ladakh, and the Indian National Young Academy of Science. He emphasised the importance of cross-sectoral coordination to address the pressing issue of air pollution, which poses significant health risks. Highlighting the importance of preserving clean air, the Lieutenant Governor stressed the need to learn from past mistakes and work towards a cleaner and greener planet. He reiterated the administration's commitment, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to tackle air pollution effectively.

The Lieutenant Governor called for an effective monitoring network, inclusive public participation, and capacity-building measures to ensure sustainable solutions. He directed key stakeholders to assess and review the progress made under the National Clean Air Programme. 

Additionally, the Lieutenant Governor announced a grant of Rs 1.5 crore from the Forest, Ecology, and Environment Department to strengthen the Himalayan Aerosol Research Instrumentation Centre at the Central University of Jammu. He also assured support for the expansion of research-related activities in Jammu and Kashmir by the Indian Institute of Geomagnetism.

During the event, a Service Level Agreement was signed between the District Skill Committee Samba and the School of Business Studies, Central University of Jammu, for capacity-building and skill courses under the SANKALP Scheme—various dignitaries, including Prof. Sanjeev Jain, Vice Chancellor of Central University of Jammu, and Sh. Dheeraj Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary of Forests, was present at the inauguration ceremony, along with experts, faculty members, and students.

Editor's Note

Environmental awareness is something that is only taught theoretically in educational institutions. Practical ways to reduce pollution should be integrated into one’s everyday life and should be encouraged in institutions. The 2nd Aerosol Winter School addresses the issue of air pollution and provides sustainable solutions along with creating a space for combined efforts to combat it. The proactive approach encourages academia-industry partnerships, addressing real-world challenges while gathering like-minded individuals for research and conservation debates.