JAMMU, May 25 : Kewal Wadhera, environmentalist and social activist, addressed students of Government Higher Secondary School, Bahu Fort, regarding how to live a healthy life free from drugs. The 85-year-old has the vigour of people half his age and was able to establish instant connect with the students who heard him attentively.
His energetic way of presenting facts and commitment towards society were truly inspiring. The workshop on environmental conservation and drug-free living was an instant hit as the whole of Union Territory (UT) of Jammu & Kashmir is celebrating 100 days of Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir these days.
Mr Wadhera urged the students to adopt a drug-free lifestyle, emphasizing that any “Change begins at home. First reform yourself, then your family.” Family bonding and support from its members was an important aspect of leading a healthy life, he said.
Regarding use of plastics in daily life, he stressed the need for avoiding single-use plastics and polythene bags, encouraging the use of cloth bags. Cloth bags were also distributed to students during the event.
Making a strong pitch for supporting local businesses, Mr Wadhera said buying local products was the way forward. It was important to explore tourist destinations within the country to support the economy and reduce carbon footprint, he added.
Water conservation, tree plantation and proper waste disposal were important aspects of environmental protection, Mr Wadhera said. He demonstrated creative ways to reuse waste — planting saplings in old plastic containers and stitching bags from old clothes. Students watched keenly as he told him about these simple tricks of reuse and recycle.
Mr Wadhera also highlighted the importance of staying connected to one’s culture and traditions. The students listened with rapt attention and were deeply moved by the activist’s dedication. At 85, his passion for spreading awareness on de-addiction and environment protection across schools left a lasting impact on the young minds.
Principal Anuradha Sharma thanked the guest for enlightening the students. She said: “Your words were not just a lecture, but a call for action. Our students are inspired to practice these values in daily life as all this was no empty preaching.”
The workshop concluded with a pledge by students to keep their surroundings clean, plant more trees, conserve water, and say no to drugs and plastic.
