Ahmedabad, June 5
On the occasion of World Environment Day, a tree plantation drive, environmental protection pledge ceremony, and awareness seminar were organized at the SAL Institute of Medical Sciences. The program was jointly conducted by the Community Medicine Department and the Forensic Medicine Department under the guidance and presence of CEO Dr. Nitin Shah, Dean Dr. Jayendrasinh Jadeja, and Additional Dean Dr. Vijay Pandya. The event was attended by 45 faculty members, 110 medical students, and representatives of the institution.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Nitin Shah encouraged students and faculty members to remain conscious of environmental protection and adopt eco-friendly practices in their daily lives. He emphasized that environmental conservation is essential for human survival, as trees and plants are major sources of oxygen and play a crucial role in absorbing increasing levels of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Therefore, tree plantation, tree protection, and environmental conservation are not only necessities but also moral responsibilities.
Dr. Shah further appreciated the participation of students and faculty members, stating that awareness alone is not sufficient for environmental conservation; practical efforts are equally important. He stressed the wise use of natural resources, pollution control, and the adoption of a sustainable and green lifestyle.
In his address, Dr. Jayendrasinh Jadeja highlighted that rising temperatures, heatwaves, and climate change have become serious challenges for humanity. He stated that environmental protection is not only a social responsibility but also a vital means of safeguarding human health. He urged students to actively participate in tree plantation initiatives and take responsibility for protecting the trees they plant.
Additional Dean Dr. Vijay Pandya praised the enthusiasm and active participation of the students. He remarked that as future doctors, their responsibilities extend beyond treating diseases to spreading awareness about health and environmental issues within society. He encouraged students to become ambassadors of environmental conservation and carry the message to every section of the community.
Environmental Protection Pledge
The main highlight of the program was the Environmental Protection Pledge Ceremony, during which 45 faculty members and 110 medical students collectively pledged to protect the environment.
All participants resolved to conserve the environment, use natural resources such as water and energy responsibly, reduce waste, promote reuse and recycling, avoid single-use plastics, participate in tree plantation and tree conservation activities, and support biodiversity and cleanliness initiatives.
Speakers also discussed the growing challenges posed by heatwaves and climate change. They pointed out that uncontrolled deforestation, increasing pollution, and excessive exploitation of natural resources are among the primary causes of environmental imbalance. They warned that if tree plantation and conservation efforts are not taken seriously, the threat of heatwaves could become far more severe in the future.
The program concluded with a collective commitment to spreading awareness about environmental conservation. Students and faculty members pledged to play an active role in building a cleaner, greener, and healthier future.
Delivering the message, “Save the Environment, Save Life,” the speakers emphasized that environmental conservation should not remain limited to a single day but should become a continuous responsibility of every citizen. They stressed the need for immediate and determined action to ensure a safe, healthy, and sustainable environment for future generations.
