Celebrate eco-friendly Diwali, people exhorted

Our Correspondent

Jalandhar, October 11

An NGO, Roshni, in collaboration with Apeejay School, exhorted the people to celebrate eco-friendly Diwali at an event organised at Bishop House here today.

Every year, the NGO use different means to spread the message. This year, the Roshni society, along with special children from Prayaas and students of Apeejay School, has taken an initiative to spread the message among the masses by reciting and raising banners highlighting the message, ‘No to Crackers, Yes to Light’.

The event was inaugurated by Bishop Dr Franco Mulakkal and Jalandhar Deputy Commissioner Varinder Kumar Sharma in the presence of other dignitaries.

Students raised slogans and delivered speeches on the causes and consequences of environmental degradation.

On the occasion, Dr Franco appealed to the public to follow the students to realise their responsibility towards earth. He also urged the people to celebrate Diwali without crackers in a simple, dignified and noble way.

DC Varinder Kumar Sharma appreciated the efforts of the students. He said, “Children light firecrackers which affects the environment. Sometimes, bursting of crackers causes loss to property and one’s life. To avoid such incidents, there is a need to make the youngsters aware of the ill-effects of firecrackers. They should be encouraged to keep the environment clean and green.”

Differently-abled students from Prayaas School presented a cultural programme on the occasion. Dr Franco and DC gave away the prizes and gifts to the participants.