By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 23: Earth Day 2026 was observed across East Khasi Hills with large-scale plantation drives, signature campaigns, and waste management initiatives aimed at environmental conservation.
The Social Forestry Division, in collaboration with St. Edmund’s College and local village communities, organised programmes in Laitsohpliah, Marpna, Dieng Song, and Mawsynram under the global theme, “Our Power, Our Planet.”
At Laitsohpliah, DFO Social Forestry H. Lato (IFS) joined students from the Geography Department of St. Edmund’s College and local residents to plant nearly 400 indigenous saplings, including alder, pine, and cherry. Addressing the gathering, Lato spoke on the significance of sustainable living and the community’s role in nurturing these plants to maturity.
A concurrent drive was held along the Rhododendron Trek route in Upper Shillong. Native species such as rhododendron, bauhinia, and Ilex khasiana were planted to enhance the area’s biodiversity and boost its eco-tourism potential. Across all sites in the district, approximately 1,000 saplings were planted. On the St. Edmund’s campus, the N.O.W. Eco-Club conducted a signature campaign and a dry plastic collection drive. Students and staff contributed plastic waste from their homes and hostels, which was handed over to ECO-Ri for recycling.
The programme concluded with participants pledging to protect the environment and ensuring the survival of the newly planted saplings as a symbol of long-term ecological responsibility.
