NONGPOH/ NONGSTOIN/ JOWAI: Joining the rest of the world, the Social Forestry Division, Ri-Bhoi District in collaboration with the Basin Development Unit observed the International Day for Biodiversity at Science Hall, Nongpoh, on Friday.
Addl. Deputy Commissioner and Nodal Officer, Basin Development Unit, Nongpoh, D. Hynniewta graced the occasion as chief guest in the presence of DFO, Social Forestry Division, Nongpoh, S.K. Budnah, Assistant Director of Horticulture K.B Lakiang and District Agriculture Officer S.K Riahtam besides students who participated in the essay, debate and painting competitions held on the occasion.
The day was observed with the main objective of creating mass awareness among the students and local residents on the important of preserving and conserving biodiversity.
A similar programme was organised at Nativity Higher Secondary School, Mawkyrwat, on Friday.
The programme was attended by a large numbers of local people and students of various schools of the area. A. Lyngdoh, Chief Conservator of Forest, Social Forestry and Environment, Meghalaya, was the chief guest on the occasion.
Highlights of the day included painting, drawing and slogan competitions attended by 12 schools and colleges of the district followed by the prize distribution ceremony to the winners of the various events.
Another function was organised at Khliehriat Higher Secondary School, Khliehriat, attended by Parliamentary Secretary and local legislator Justin Dkhar, Addl. Deputy Commissioner, East Jaintia Hills, R.S. Manner, Khliehriat BDO C. Mawkon, Principal, Jaintia Eastern College, P. Lyngdoh.
J.M. Pohsngap, Divisional Forest Officer, Social Forestry, Jowai, presided over the function, E. Shullai, MFS, Asst. Conservator of Forests, Jowai, offered the vote of thanks while Fr. Francis Lakra, Vice Principal, Khliehriat Higher Secondary School, delivered the welcome address.
The function was followed by tree plantation on the school premises.
