Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU), Puducherry Campus, in collaboration with the Department of Science, Technology and Environment (DSTE), Puducherry Pollution Control Committee (PPCC), Puducherry EIACP PC Hub, Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON), National Service Scheme (NSS), and Universal Eco Foundation (UEF), celebrated World Ocean Day 2026 on 8 June 2026 with the theme of fostering environmental responsibility and ocean conservation. The event brought together nearly 250 participants, including university students, faculty members, school students, environmental professionals, and conservation enthusiasts, creating a vibrant platform for learning, awareness, and action.
The programme commenced with an inaugural session featuring distinguished dignitaries and environmental experts. Shri K. Kalamegam, Environmental Engineer-cum-EIACP Coordinator, Government of Puducherry, welcomed the gathering and emphasized the importance of environmental awareness, scientific knowledge, and youth participation in conservation efforts. Shri Arsh Ganesan, Director of RRU Puducherry Campus, highlighted the connection between environmental sustainability and national security, stressing the need to protect coastal ecosystems and marine biodiversity for the well-being of future generations. The keynote address by Dr. Satish Kumar, NSS State Officer, Puducherry, inspired students to actively contribute to environmental protection through community engagement and sustainable practices.
A major highlight of the celebration was the launch of the “REIMAGINE” World Ocean Day Awareness Poster, which carried the message “One Ocean, One Planet, One Future” and encouraged participants to rethink their relationship with the ocean through sustainable lifestyles and responsible environmental choices.
The event also featured insightful technical sessions delivered by eminent experts. Dr. Goldin Quadros, Principal Scientist and EIACP Coordinator at SACON, discussed the growing threat of plastic pollution in marine ecosystems and highlighted the critical role of mangrove forests as “blue carbon sinks” that help mitigate climate change and protect coastlines from erosion. Shri Bhupesh Gupta, Founder and Director of Universal Eco Foundation and Adjunct Faculty at RRU, spoke about the conservation challenges facing marine wildlife, wetlands, and coastal habitats, while encouraging students to adopt environmentally responsible practices in their daily lives.
To enhance experiential learning, an interactive exhibition showcased life-sized anatomical models of endangered marine species, including dugongs and sea turtles. Students gained valuable insights into marine biodiversity, habitat conservation, and the threats posed by pollution and unsustainable human activities. The programme concluded with a field visit to the mangrove ecosystem at Murungapakkam, where participants observed estuarine biodiversity, studied mangrove adaptations, and witnessed firsthand the impact of plastic pollution on coastal environments. This practical exposure reinforced the lessons shared during the technical sessions and strengthened participants’ understanding of the importance of ocean and coastal conservation.
The celebration of World Ocean Day 2026 successfully brought together academia, government agencies, environmental organizations, and students to promote awareness and action for marine conservation. By combining expert knowledge, interactive learning, and field-based experiences, the event inspired participants to become responsible environmental stewards and contribute towards building a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for our oceans.
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