JAMMU : Principal Secretary, Higher Education, Rohit Kansal today released here the compendium on ‘Mass Awareness Campaign’ on SAVE RIVER DEVIKA compiled by Govt. Degree College, Chenani.

The booklet is the result of a research project completed by the college under the title, “Hydrochemical Impact Assessment, Study of Anthropogenic Pressure and Mass Public Awareness on Protection of Devika Stream and Adjoining Underground Sources of Water (Bowlis) at District Udhampur” sponsored by the J&K Science, Technology and Innovation Council (JKSTIC), of Department of Science and Technology.

Speaking on the occasion, the Principal Secretary emphasized the importance of undertaking such people-oriented and socially useful academic pursuits. He offered his compliments on the efforts of the entire team behind the research paper. He expressed optimism that other colleges would follow suit and come up with such socially viable research projects.

The Principal Secretary suggested incorporating a research component in the curriculum of every major college in order to enable the students to develop independent critical thinking skills besides honing their research capabilities. Speaking specifically on the current effort, he hoped that this research work would act as a guide to undertake pollution abatement measures of major rivers across the UT by other researchers.

Kansal appreciated the efforts of the College Principal and that of the students in taking this research initiative to create public awareness and to educate the masses on the importance of water bodies and their protection. He maintained that rivers are the lifelines of any civilization. He added that these not only provide us potable water but maintain ecologic balance besides acting as a source of subsistence to many. He expected that the good work would be continued in future as well.

Dr. Pragya Khanna, the College Principal and Chief Investigator of the Project explained that the main purpose of this research was to sensitize the people about the need of making Devika River pollution free. She said that it was a matter of great pride for the institution to be able to join hands with the district administration in this significant venture and contribute towards safeguarding the water body and its adjoining Bowlis.

She also informed that that the research work executed has led to various start-up ideas. She further gave out that its recommendations have the potential to create an impact on the community and support entrepreneurs in setting up different livelihood generating ventures.