A programme on Deeper Public Engagement and Consultation under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) 2024-25 was held at DBHSS Auditorium on 9th August 2025, organised by the Kohima District Administration in collaboration with Don Bosco College, Kohima.
The student community has been identified as a key target group under the Clean Air Programme, given their potential to influence not only themselves but also their families and the larger community. Other aspects of NCAP include infrastructure and technological upgradation such as end-to-end pavement of roads, greening of Kohima city, setting up of air quality monitoring systems, construction of water fountains, mechanized street sweeping, and traffic management improvements, which are being implemented through multiple agencies and departments.
The event began with a plantation drive, where Deputy Commissioner of Kohima, B. Henok Buchem, NCS, and Principal of Don Bosco College, Fr. Dr. Tious Varghese, planted a Ficus Benjamina sapling.
In his address, DC Henok Buchem described the occasion as a homecoming, recalling his student days at Don Bosco College. Sharing his personal experience of being admitted to the ICU for 16 days during the first wave of COVID-19, he said the ordeal made him realize the true value of clean air.
Calling air pollution one of the greatest environmental challenges, Buchem noted that Kohima’s air quality is already at a moderate level due to dust, construction activities, waste burning, and vehicular emissions. While government initiatives such as road improvement and promotion of electric vehicles are underway, he stressed that real change requires the participation of every citizen.
Encouraging students to take the lead, he shared an anecdote from his son’s school’s zero waste policy, observing that children are often the best teachers. He cited Swedish environmentalist Greta Thunberg as an example and urged young people to adopt small but impactful practices such as planting trees, saying no to waste burning, reducing plastic use, recycling, walking short distances, and participating in eco-clubs. Every small action is like adding a breath of fresh air to our community. If each of us takes responsibility today, we can hand over to the next generation a city that is cleaner, safer, and healthier, he said.
Delivering the keynote address, EAC Kohima, Dr. Riku Khutso, highlighted the causes of air pollution, including suspended dust particles, vehicular exhaust, burning of waste, and construction dust. He pointed out that Kohima records high levels of PM10 and PM2.5, fine particulate matter that directly enters the respiratory system and bloodstream, causing long-term health complications. On clear sunny days, dust levels rise significantly in Kohima, making these pollutants even more hazardous, he cautioned. He stressed that tackling the problem requires both stronger government measures and active public participation.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Principal Fr. Dr. Tious Varghese underscored the importance of education that goes beyond textbooks, shaping students into responsible citizens who care for society and the environment. He said the workshop reflects the college’s philosophy of fostering collaboration between government, institutions, and communities to safeguard the future.
The session was chaired by Dean of Academics, DBCK, Dr. Jarani Maheo, while the opening prayer was led by Rector, DBCK, Fr. Dr. Xavier Mattam,. A special number was presented by BA 5th Semester students, and the vote of thanks was delivered by HoD, Department of English, DBCK, Rhilo Mero,.
As part of the programme, a prepared speech competition was held for students. Rüvuomenuo Sorhie (Political Science B) secured the first position, followed by Yanpothung Ngullie (History) in second and Neitsizolie Chakruno (Commerce) in third. Consolation prizes went to Tuhafisharu (Zoology), Lasheba M. Yimchunger(Education), Ms. Vimesienuo Tetso (Political Science A), Alice Khongsai (English), and Meheti Tep (Botany).
(Molungnenla. IA)