World Wetlands Day Celebration at DY Patil University

About the Event

The Climate Action Club (D-CAL) of DY Patil University, under the leadership of Ms. Rajlakshmi Patil, hosted a vibrant and impactful celebration of World Wetlands Day in partnership with the Navi Mumbai Environment Preservation Society (NMEPS). The event aimed to amplify awareness around wetland conservation and underscore the ecological, social, and economic value of wetlands.

Inaugural Ceremony & Keynote Guests

The event was inaugurated by:

Abhijit Ghorpade, Director, Climate Action Plan
Virendra Gandhi, President, NMEPS

Both dignitaries emphasized the urgent need for wetland protection in the face of rapid urbanization, highlighting the critical role wetlands play in biodiversity support, climate regulation, and community health.

Event Highlights

1️ Debate: “Dams of Maharashtra: Necessity or Luxury?”

A thought-provoking student-led debate explored both sides of the dam development argument, sparking critical discussion around environmental trade-offs and infrastructure growth.

2️ Student Presentations

Students delivered compelling presentations on:

The ecological importance of wetlands
Conservation strategies
Policy implications and proposed action plans

3️ Street Play: “A Degree Without a Future”

This powerful performance dramatized a graduation scene where a student questions the relevance of education amid ecological destruction. Inspired by real-life flamingo deaths near Nerul, the play highlighted how infrastructure like billboards can devastate bird migration and wildlife.

4️ Expert Presentation by Mr. Rahul Khot (BNHS)

Mr. Khot, Deputy Director of Bombay Natural History Society, presented on the significance of flamingos as keystone wetland species, stressing the need for habitat protection in urban ecosystems like Navi Mumbai.

5️ Panel Discussion: “Preserving Wetlands in Urban India”

Moderated by Mr. Sandeep Bangia, Co-Founder of NMEPS, the expert panel addressed systemic challenges and collaborative solutions for wetland conservation. Panelists included:

Satalin Dayanand– Environmental Activist
Nandkumar Pawar– Founder, Shree Ekvira Aai Pratishthan
Shirish Garud– Senior Fellow & Director, TERI

Recognition & Closing

Prizes were awarded to participants who excelled in various activities, followed by a warm vote of thanks. The event concluded with a unified pledge to act as stewards of the environment and to advocate for policies that protect wetland ecosystems.

Impact

This celebration successfully combined education, creativity, and advocacy. It provided students and attendees with a deep appreciation for the ecological role of wetlands, inspiring them to take informed, proactive steps in their own communities.

Speaker Links