Since 1976, we have organized ‘Welcome and Send-off’ events for migratory birds at Sukhna Lake, blending spot bird identification with painting and quiz contests. We played a crucial role in establishing Chandigarh’s first City Birds Sanctuary in 1988.

In 1994, ESI embarked on a significant collaboration with the Indian Army’s Western Command to conduct environmental awareness and action programs.

ESI takes a firm stand against environmental degradation and has filed petitions in the High Court of Punjab and Haryana to address such concerns successfully.

To date, we have planted around 50,000 saplings and distributed 5,000-6,000 saplings annually, promoting native species, including medicinal plants. Our work encompasses temple forestry, Memorial Forestry, Social forestry, Sandalwood Plantations, Museum Forestry, and Trees in Indian Art at Govt. museum, Chandigarh, Kalagram (NZCC), and Govt. College of Arts, Chandigarh.

We understand that cultural diversity is as vital as biological diversity. To this end, we hold numerous cultural events that emphasize environmental conservation.

ESI also contributes through publications, producing books, posters, and stickers on environmental and native conservation.

Our efforts span diverse environmental initiatives, including vermin-compost composting, organic farming, countering the plastic menace, curbing chemical fogging, eradicating noxious weeds like Congress grass (Parthenium hysterophorous), promoting ‘Say No to Crackers,’ addressing fallen leaves, and advocating for national cleanliness.

In line with the present themes of Earth Days and World Environment Days, our society has actively promoted ‘Beat Plastic Pollution,’ spreading awareness and encouraging the abandonment of disposable plastics.

We take immense pride in the recognition our members, teachers, and volunteers have received from various social organizations and government agencies at both state and national levels.

Today, ESI is closely associated with the National Council for Science & Technology Communication (NCSTC), Department of Science & Technology, Government of India. We play a crucial role in enlightening teachers and students through activities under the National Children’s Science Congress at the state level. Our aim is to provide a platform and exposure to our teachers and students through interactions with eminent scientists, fostering scientific inquiry and creativity among our youth.

We are grateful for the support from the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, for enabling us to organize the National Children’s Science Congress at the state level. We also extend our heartiest appreciation to the Education Department, Chandigarh Administration, for their consistent support and encouragement.

In our pursuit of promoting science and technology in urban and rural areas and enriching science education in schools and colleges, we advocate for the establishment of a Science City in Chandigarh, as seen in other cities across India.

NK Jhingan
Secretary, ESI