Water-logged paddy fields emit harmful methane: World Bank Economist

Preparations underway for international conference at DBMS College of Education

Jamshedpur, Nov 28: Preparations are in full swing for international conference scheduled for December 13-14 at DBMS College of Education. The conference, themed “Harnessing the Power of Education to Embrace and Adopt Green Initiatives,” will welcome four delegates from the United States.

As part of the lead-up to the event, Dr. Ashesh Prasann, Senior Agricultural Economist, World Bank, Washington, conducted an insightful session titled “Recipe for a Livable Planet” at Kalakriti, Kadma. The session, attended by approximately 300 students, focused on the environmental impact of methane emissions. Using a simple and engaging presentation, Dr. Prasann highlighted how stagnant water in paddy fields and cattle waste contribute to methane production, which is harmful to the environment. He suggested measures like rearing low-methane-emitting cattle to mitigate this issue.

Dr. Prasann also addressed the environmental harm caused by enteric fermentation in livestock. His talk was followed by an interactive Q&A session where B.Ed. students posed numerous questions about environmental conservation.

Educationist Vijayam Kartha from Pune also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the role of schools in protecting the environment. Drawing on his extensive experience, Kartha proposed initiatives such as monthly community clean-up drives by students and the creation of an annual eco-calendar for schools. His suggestions aimed to instill environmental awareness and responsibility from a young age.

Earlier, the program began with a welcome speech by Principal Dr. Juhi Samarpita and was conducted by B.Ed. student Subhangi. Members of the DBMS Trust and college management committee were present, including patron Bhanumathi Neelkanthan, President B. Chandrasekhar, Secretary Shripriya Dharmarajan, Co-Secretary Sudha Dilip, Vice Principal Dr. Monica Uppal, and several faculty members.