Howrah, August 4, 2025: In a spirited effort to promote biodiversity conservation and environmental awareness, Margastha Research Foundation organized a Tree Plantation Drive and International Clouded Leopard Day celebration at Podar International School, Howrah. The event saw enthusiastic participation from students of Classes 5 to 10, alongside environmental experts and dignitaries.
The program commenced at 10:30 a.m. with a brief introductory session by Ms. Soumi Panja, a Ph.D. Research Scholar at the National Taiwan University, who emphasized the importance of ecological balance, native plant species, and the invisible dangers of microplastics in daily life. Her inspiring talk laid the foundation for the day’s environmental activities.
The tree plantation ceremony was led by Mr. Ajay Verma, Director and Secretary of Margastha Research Foundation, who, along with the school students, planted saplings within the school premises. The event highlighted the crucial role of youth in combating climate change and preserving green spaces.
A special talk on the International Clouded Leopard Day was delivered by Ms. Sutrishna Halder, Zoologist & Volunteer member at Margastha Research Foundation, who introduced students to the mysterious and rare clouded leopard, its habitat, behavior, and the urgent need for its conservation in the Eastern Himalayan region and beyond.
The day also featured an awareness session on environmental hazards and sustainable practices by Ms. PANJA, focusing on threats like plastic pollution and deforestation, encouraging the young audience to adopt eco-friendly habits.
Mr. Ranjan Shaw, Director & President of Margastha Research Foundation, delivered a powerful message about environmental stewardship and the importance of preserving native species through collective action. He also led a symbolic tree planting, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to community-led conservation efforts.
As a token of gratitude and collaboration, Mr. Ranjan Shaw presented a felicitation to Ms. Shabnam Bhowmick, Principal of Podar International School, acknowledging the school’s support in hosting the event and nurturing environmental values among students.
A vote of thanks was extended by Administrative Officer Mr. Avishek Roy Choudhury, who shared:
“Thank you very much for coming to our school & conducting this event. All the children enjoyed it a lot.”
Special appreciation was directed towards Shri Dipak Kumar Mondal, Divisional Forest Officer, Directorate of Forest, Howrah, for generously providing free saplings that made the plantation drive possible.
The event concluded with a strong call for action, urging the younger generation to become guardians of wildlife and green ambassadors for a sustainable future.
