An environmental awareness programme was organised at Daribok, Nokrek in West Garo Hills by the Garo Hills Environmental Protection Society (GHEPS) in an effort to raise awareness of the value of the environment and to inspire the locals to take action to stop it from further deteriorating.

The programme led by Pastor Durasal R Marak, the Vice President of GHEPS and Garo Baptist Convention (GBC) Youth Director was attended by various dignitaries including Rev. Father Jimberth K Marak from Samanda Saint George Parish, former GHADC CEM P K Sangma, Tura MDC B N Marak, Pastor Waipin K Marak the Youth Director of AB Krima IV and Social Worker Roger Benny A Sangma.

Dr. Merril N. Sangma, the president of GHEPS, addressed throughout the programme about the necessity for an immediate response to the environmental degradation of the Garo Hills region. Instead of bringing new species to the area along with the new plantations, he emphasised the conservation of the native flora and fauna. He said that God had gifted the Garo Hills with an abundance of naturally occurring organic crops, medicinal plants, and other plant life, and that these resources needed to be saved right away to prevent extinction. In addition, he urged everyone to work together, regardless of political affiliations, religious beliefs, or tribal affiliations, to stop environmental destruction.

The Forest Department officers provided full assistance for Friday’s session and gave each participant a sapling for planting as well. All programme participants thereafter made a commitment to safeguard the Garo Hills’ ecosystem.