The All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi, celebrated World Environment Day 2025 with great enthusiasm and institutional commitment under the national campaign “Meri LiFE” (Lifestyle for Environment) launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India. All activities were conducted under the guidance of Prof. (Dr.) Manjusha Rajagopala, Director I/C AIIA. It also reflects AIIA’s alignment with national priorities on environmental sustainability. This year’s theme, “Ending Plastic Pollution,” served as the focal point of all initiatives.

The celebration featured a wide range of impactful activities organized by the Department of Dravyaguna Vigyan, including an impressive Environment Awareness Rally, which saw active participation from PG and PhD scholars, faculty members, institutional staff, and local police personnel, promoting collective civic responsibility.

A compelling nukkad natak (street play) titled “Plastic Ki Duniya, Prakriti Ka Vinash” was performed by students, portraying the dangers of plastic pollution and presenting Ayurvedic wisdom as a sustainable alternative. The performance drew attention and appreciation from the public and healthcare visitors alike.

In a major mass plantation drive, over 500 medicinal and native saplings were planted within the AIIA campus, and 200 saplings were distributed to patients to encourage home-based herbal cultivation. These green initiatives were supported by enthusiastic participation from faculty, scholars, and community stakeholders.

Between 22nd May and 5th June, the institute successfully reached out to more than 5,000 patients with targeted awareness campaigns on plastic pollution, sustainable practices, and Ayurvedic ecology. Educational events such as an Essay Writing Competition and a Model Making Competition were held to inspire students to propose and visualize natural alternatives to plastic.

The main program, held on 5th June 2025, at the AIIA Mini Auditorium, was graced by Prof. M.M. Rao, Medical Superintendent; Prof. Yogesh Badwe, Dean PG; and Dr. Meena S. Deogade, Head of the Department of Dravyaguna Vigyan and Nodal Officer for the Meri LiFE campaign at AIIA. The event featured the environment pledge, a summary of pre-event activities, prize distribution for competitions, and insightful addresses by dignitaries.

The celebration witnessed the presence of Heads of Departments, faculty members, staff, and students from various departments, demonstrating unified institutional participation in advancing the message of environmental responsibility.

This celebration reaffirmed AIIA’s dedication to the national movement for a sustainable, green, and plastic-free India, through the lens of traditional knowledge and community engagement.

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MV/AKS

Meri Press Release