Planet in Focus: Global Environmental Seminar Marks Earth Day 2025
Honoring the Legacy of Jenab M.B. Mughal – The Father of Environment of Pir Panjal

In a heartfelt tribute to Earth Day and in commemoration of the legendary environmentalist Jenab M.B. Mughal, the Government Degree College Surankote hosted a prestigious global seminar titled “Planet in Focus: Global Environmental Seminar.” The day-long event was marked by a rich blend of scientific discourse, student engagement, and a powerful celebration of Mughal Sahib’s enduring environmental legacy in the Pir Panjal region.
Eminent geologist and former HOD of Geology, University of Jammu, Prof. G.M. Bhat graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Prof. Mohd Iqbal Raina, HOD Physics, P.G. College Rajouri, was the Guest of Honour, while Dr. Sofi Mohammad Zubair was the keynote address. Dr. Arif Tasleem, HOD Botany, BGSBU, was the Special Guest of the day.
Other notable dignitaries included Dr. Latief Mir HOD Urdu, P.G. College Rajouri, Dr. Ather Aziz Raina HOD Mathematics, GDC Thanamandi, and Prof. Danish Iqbal Raina HOD Tourism, BGSBU), whose presence added immense value to the event. Mr. Fayaz Ahmed Qazi and Prof. Yasmeed Mughal, HOD English GGM Science College joined the programme through online mode.
The seminar was meticulously organized by Prof. Javed Manzoor HoD Environmental Science, Dr. Mohd Ashfaq HoD Geography, and Dr. Tabarak Amin Khan NCC Caretaker Officer, whose dedication ensured the smooth execution of the programme. The overall supervision was led by the college Principal, Dr. Prof. Rani Mughal, whose visionary leadership and commitment to environmental awareness shaped the seminar’s impactful agenda.
The seminar commenced with a warm welcome and bouquet presentation by the Principal and college faculty. Prof. Fatha Mohammed, HOD Zoology, introduced the theme, delivering an emotional reflection on the life and service of the late Jenab M.B. Mughal, a tireless champion for the environment in the region.
Advocate Tabassum Mughal, President of the Pir Panjal Environment and Eco Development Society, delivered a poignant address, sharing personal anecdotes of Mughal Sahib’s unwavering dedication to reforestation and conservation. “He didn’t just serve the forests—he served the future of our children,” she said, urging the youth to carry forward his mission as stewards of nature.
The keynote speaker, Dr. Sofi Mohammad Zubair, captivated the audience with his talk “Our Power, Planet.” He highlighted the interconnectedness of biodiversity, climate justice, and community-led sustainability, inspiring all present to adopt eco-conscious practices.
Dr. Ather Aziz Raina lauded the efforts of the organizers and congratulated the principal and staff for the successful event. Dr. Arif Tasleem presented an insightful PowerPoint on renewable energy, showcasing practical solutions for sustainable development.
Guest of Honour Prof. Mohd Iqbal Raina emphasized integrating environmental education into mainstream academics, noting the vital role physics plays in developing green technologies. Chief Guest Prof. G.M. Bhat spoke on the day’s theme, Transitional Energy, and highlighted the urgent need for scientific institutions to lead in sustainable resource management and environmental advocacy.
In her presidential address, Principal Dr. Prof. Rani Mughal underlined the global importance of Earth Day and paid tribute to the late Jenab M.B. Mughal, calling him a “towering figure” in forest preservation whose legacy should inspire educators and students alike.
A stirring “Earth Pledge” ceremony, led by the Geography Department, reinforced the day’s message of commitment to the planet. Students participated enthusiastically in a thematic poster competition titled “Sustainable Planet through Our Power,” showcasing creativity and awareness. Winners included Husnain Kazmi (First Prize), Zahima Kouser (Second Prize), and Sumera Mirza (Third Prize).
In a special segment, Mr. Tahmoor Mirza was honored with the Player of the Match trophy for his performance in a friendly staff-student cricket match held in memory of the late Prof. Zahid Sharief.
A highlight of the day was the release of the second edition of the college magazine The Beacon, a vibrant reflection of the institution’s intellectual and creative spirit. The magazine, which focuses on environmental and social themes, was met with resounding applause. Notably, its inaugural edition was also released on Earth Day the previous year, marking a growing tradition of literary and environmental celebration.
The event was eloquently anchored by Prof. Adnan Ali Shah, whose professionalism ensured a seamless and engaging seminar experience.
The programme concluded with a prize distribution ceremony and a warm vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Mohammed Ashfaq, appreciating the collective efforts that made the seminar a grand success.
The entire faculty of GDC Surankote was present on the occasion including Associate Professor Dr. Aziz Ahmed Chouhan, Prof. Rizwan Khan, Prof. Mohammed Jahangir, and Prof. Shaista Parveen.