5 June 2026
World Environment Day, observed annually on 5 June, is the world’s largest global platform dedicated to environmental awareness and action. It serves as an important occasion to encourage collective responsibility towards protecting natural resources, conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable development. The theme for World Environment Day 2026, "Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future." highlighted the urgent need to restore degraded ecosystems, strengthen climate resilience and promote sustainable management of land and water resources. The theme holds particular significance for agriculture, as healthy ecosystems and natural resources are essential for ensuring food security, environmental sustainability and resilient rural livelihoods.
To mark the occasion, institutes of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) across India organized a wide range of activities promoting environmental stewardship and sustainable agricultural practices. Scientists, farmers, students, women groups and rural youth actively participated in plantation drives, awareness campaigns, cleanliness programmes, technical lectures, farmer-scientist interactions and demonstrations on eco-friendly technologies. Through these pan-India celebrations, ICAR reaffirmed its commitment towards sustainable agriculture, natural resource conservation and climate-resilient development, while encouraging greater public participation in environmental protection and ecological restoration.
ICAR-Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture, Hyderabad
As part of the World Environment Day 2026 celebrations, ICAR-Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture, Hyderabad in collaboration with other ICAR Institutes, State Agricultural Universities (SAUs) and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), organized an online workshop on “Rainwater Harvesting, Water Conservation and its Efficient Use” today. The workshop aimed to create awareness on rainwater harvesting, water conservation and efficient utilization of water resources as an important measure for climate action.
Dr V. K. Singh, Director, ICAR-CRIDA, addressed the participants and emphasized the importance of maintaining clean air, water and healthy soil for ensuring environmental and ecosystem sustainability. He highlighted the critical role of sustainable natural resource management in addressing climate-related challenges and securing ecological balance.
A plantation drive was organized to promote environmental conservation, enhance green cover and encourage sustainable lifestyles among staff and the community. Dr Singh, Director, ICAR-CRIDA, along with staff members, planted saplings under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign and emphasized individual responsibility towards environmental protection.
The programme also reinforced the objectives of Mission LiFE by promoting environmentally conscious behaviour and sustainable practices. The event concluded with a collective pledge to continue plantation and conservation activities.
A total of 100 participants attended the programme.
ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland
ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun celebrated World Environment Day 2026 with active participation of Mithun farmers from Mirem village.
During the programme, experts highlighted the role of Mithun-based farming systems in maintaining ecological balance and conserving forest ecosystems. Awareness was also created on biodiversity conservation, environmental protection and sustainable natural resource management.
To support ecological restoration and sustainable Mithun rearing, fodder plant saplings were distributed among the participating farmers to promote fodder cultivation and reduce pressure on natural forests. The programme concluded with a collective pledge by the participants towards environmental conservation and sustainable resource management.
A total of 28 farmers attended the programme, which focused on environmental conservation and sustainable livestock farming.
ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Island
As part of the World Environment Day 2026 celebrations, ICAR-CIARI organized a plantation drive on the institute campus, during which 50 saplings of lemon and other tree species were planted to promote environmental sustainability and enhance green cover.
The programme was presided over by Prof. A. C. Varshney, Former Vice-Chancellor, Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Mathura, who attended as the Chief Guest. He emphasized the importance of tree plantation and biodiversity conservation in combating climate change, improving environmental quality and supporting sustainable livelihoods.
Dr Jai Sunder, Director, ICAR-CIARI, reiterated the institute’s commitment to sustainable agriculture, climate resilience and natural resource management in the fragile island ecosystem of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. He highlighted the role of tree plantation in biodiversity conservation, ecological balance and climate change mitigation, while encouraging staff members and stakeholders to adopt environmentally responsible practices in daily life.
The observance reflected ICAR-CIARI’s continued commitment towards environmental conservation and climate action through meaningful on-ground initiatives.
ICAR–Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Research Centre, Udhagamandalam
ICAR–Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Research Centre, Udhagamandalam, organized a World Environment Day awareness programme today at Gurukulam School, Agalar, Ooty, under the theme “Inspired by Nature, for Climate, for our Future.” The programme aimed to create awareness among students on environmental conservation, climate change, and sustainable lifestyles.
The session highlighted the causes and impacts of climate change, the ecological importance of the Nilgiris, and the need for conserving natural resources. Students were encouraged to adopt environmentally responsible practices such as reducing plastic use, conserving water and energy, planting trees, and maintaining cleanliness.
The role of young people in promoting environmental sustainability was emphasized.
The programme witnessed active participation from 154 students (66 boys and 88 girls) and teachers. Two students also shared their views on the theme. The event successfully enhanced awareness on environmental issues and motivated students to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives.
ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna
ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna celebrated World Environment Day 2026 today under the theme “Climate Action” and the sub-theme “Sustainable Farming for a Healthy Future.”
The programme began with a Drawing Competition for children to create awareness on environmental conservation. Heads of Divisions and Programme Coordinators highlighted the importance of environmental protection, climate-resilient agriculture, natural resource conservation and sustainable farming practices for long-term food and nutritional security.
Dr Anup Das, Director, ICAR-RCER, Patna, emphasized the need for collective action involving present and future generations to promote sustainable agricultural development and build a healthier and more resilient future.
A tree plantation drive was also organized as part of the celebration. Students and children were sensitized about the “Khet Bachao Abhiyaan”, which promotes conservation of soil, water, biodiversity and productive farmlands against growing environmental challenges.
ICAR-KVK, Nadia-II, Eastern Regional Station, National Dairy Research Institute, Kalyani, West Bengal
ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Nadia (Additional), in collaboration with ICAR-CIFA Field Station, Kalyani, celebrated World Environment Day 2026 at Chotokulia village of Santipur block with participation of farmers, farm women and students. The programme promoted the Prime Minister’s green initiatives and India’s commitment to climate action under the theme “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.”
A quiz competition for school students and a plantation drive under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign were organized to create awareness on environmental conservation and sustainable living.
Under the Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav programme, an awareness campaign on “Adoption of Science-Based Nutrient and Other Input Management” highlighted the importance of soil health management, green manuring, efficient water use and integrated nutrient management for sustainable agriculture. Participants were also encouraged to adopt water conservation and proper waste disposal practices.
Around 150 farmers, farm women and students from Chotokulia, Borokulia and Hijuli villages participated in the programme.
ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region Umiam, Meghalaya
ICAR Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region (ICAR RC NEH), Umiam celebrated World Environment Day 2026 under the theme “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future” with a day-long programme focusing on environmental stewardship, climate action and sustainable living.
The programme was graced by Shri Hally War, Padma Shri Awardee 2026 and noted environmentalist, as the Chief Guest. He highlighted the importance of environmental conservation and urged students and youth to adopt eco-friendly lifestyles by reducing plastic use and embracing biodegradable alternatives.
Dr S. Ashutosh, IFS (Retd.), Co-Chairman & Director, Centre of Excellence (NRM & Sustainable Livelihoods), Meghalaya Basin Management Agency (MBMA), Government of Meghalaya, emphasized the collective responsibility towards protecting natural resources and conserving Meghalaya’s rich biodiversity and traditional knowledge systems.
Dr G. Kadirvel, Director, ICAR RC NEH, Umiam, stressed the importance of environmental conservation and called for inculcating environmentally responsible habits among students through formal and informal education.
The celebration commenced with a tree plantation drive, followed by expert lectures, slogan writing competitions, extempore speech competitions and other awareness activities for school students to promote environmental consciousness and climate action.
ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands
As part of World Environment Day observances, the Fishery Survey of India (FSI), in collaboration with ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CIARI), National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), NGOs, fishermen, students, and community members, organized an awareness programme on climate change and marine fisheries at Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
The programme highlighted the increasing impacts of climate change on oceans and fisheries, including rising sea temperatures, sea-level rise, ocean acidification, altered circulation patterns, and more frequent extreme weather events. These changes were discussed in the context of their effects on fish growth, reproduction, migration, biodiversity, fisheries productivity, and the livelihoods of fishing communities.
Special emphasis was placed on the vulnerability of coral reefs, seagrass meadows, mangroves, and other coastal ecosystems that serve as critical breeding and nursery habitats for marine organisms. The need for conserving these ecosystems to ensure long-term fisheries sustainability was underscored.
The discussions also highlighted emerging changes in fish availability and stock structure observed by fishing communities, emphasizing the importance of science-based fisheries management and adaptive strategies in response to changing environmental conditions. Participants were encouraged to adopt sustainable practices and support climate-resilient approaches for safeguarding marine resources and coastal livelihoods.
The programme was attended by around 40 participants, including scientists, students, fishermen, NGO representatives, and other stakeholders. An interactive session enabled participants to discuss climate change impacts, marine ecosystem conservation, and the future of fisheries under changing environmental conditions.
ICAR-Central Research Institute for Jute and Allied Fibres, Barrackpore, Kolkata
ICAR-Central Research Institute for Jute and Allied Fibres observed World Environment Day 2026 today with a series of awareness and creative activities promoting environmental sustainability and climate-resilient agriculture.
A technical seminar on “Wildfires and Crop Residue Burning (CRB): Drivers of Environmental Perturbations” was delivered during the programme. The programme highlighted the environmental impacts of wildfires and crop residue burning and emphasized the need for sustainable agricultural practices.
A Sit & Draw Competition was also organized for institute employees, students and project staff on the themes “Inspired by Nature, For Climate, For Our Future” and “Khet Bachao Abhiyan”.
Through these initiatives, ICAR-CRIJAF reaffirmed its commitment towards environmental stewardship, sustainable agriculture and creating awareness for a greener and healthier future.
ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Malda
Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Malda celebrated World Environment Day 2026 on 4 June 2026 with active participation from government officials, teachers, students, farmers, and stakeholders to promote environmental conservation and sustainable agriculture.
The programme featured demonstrations of climate-resilient and eco-friendly agricultural technologies, including sticky traps, solar light traps, pheromone traps, fruit bagging technology, Nutri-Garden models, Natural Farming practices, and food processing units. Exposure visits and interactive sessions were organized to raise awareness on sustainable farming, integrated pest management, biodiversity conservation, and nutritional security.
A tree plantation drive involving dignitaries, teachers, and students highlighted the collective commitment towards ecological restoration and environmental protection. Different varieties of mangoes were also distributed among school children to promote awareness about local horticultural diversity and healthy dietary habits.
The programme successfully strengthened awareness on sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship, reinforcing the message of World Environment Day 2026 for a greener and healthier future.
(Source: Respective ICAR Institutes)
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