Port Blair: Reinforcing the message of environmental responsibility and biodiversity conservation, the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Andaman & Nicobar Regional Centre, organized a series of awareness initiatives across the Islands ahead of World Environment Day 2026, drawing enthusiastic participation from students, researchers, forest officials and local residents.
As part of the celebrations, ZSI and the EIACP Centre on Island Biodiversity conducted an Environmental Awareness Rally on June 3, 2026, from Cellular Jail to the Zoological Survey of India campus. The rally was flagged off by Dr. S. Dinesh Kannan, Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Department of Environment and Forests, Andaman & Nicobar Islands. A total of 62 participants, including scientists, research scholars, students of JNRM, forest officials and members of the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO), took part in the rally carrying placards and messages highlighting key environmental concerns such as biodiversity conservation, plastic pollution, sustainable living and climate change mitigation.
Welcoming the participants, Officer-in-Charge of ZSI, Dr. C. Sivaperuman, highlighted the institution’s continued role in biodiversity research, conservation and scientific documentation in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. He stressed the need for collective action involving Government agencies, researchers, academic institutions and local communities to safeguard the fragile island ecosystem.
Earlier, on May 30, 2026, ZSI also organized a Beach Cleanup Drive at Burmanallah Beach to spread awareness on marine pollution and responsible waste disposal practices. The initiative witnessed active participation from 88 volunteers, including ZSI scientists and staff, JNRM students, social workers, PRI representatives, ward members and volunteers from various organizations and departments.
During the cleanup campaign, participants removed significant quantities of plastic waste, litter and non-biodegradable debris from the shoreline, underlining the urgent need for sustained efforts to protect marine and coastal ecosystems.
Both programmes reflected the global World Environment Day 2026 theme — “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future” — and reaffirmed ZSI’s commitment towards promoting environmental awareness, sustainable development and biodiversity conservation for future generations.
