SHIMLA, 23 04.24-In a notable initiative spearheaded by the Centre for Environment and Disaster Management at Himachal Pradesh National Law University, Shimla, a debate competition was organized in observance of Earth Day 2024. Aligned with this year's global Earth Day theme, "Planets v. Plastics," the competition focused on the pertinent topic of "Promoting Plastic Recycling: Encouraging Sustainability or Greenwashing”.

Nineteen speakers participated in the preliminary rounds, engaging in intellectually stimulating debates. The first round was adjudicated by a panel consisting of Dr. Ruchi Raj Thakur, Assistant Professor of English; Dr. Bharat Barowalia, Assistant Professor of Law; and Mr. Bineet Singh, Teaching and Research Associate. The competition comprised two rounds in total, and seven participants proceeded to the next and final round. It was evaluated by a distinguished panel comprising Prof. (Dr.) S.S. Jaswal, Registrar HPNLU; Dr. Alok Kumar, Associate Professor of Law; and Dr. Ambika Harish, Assistant Professor of Law. Additionally, the presence of the Honorable Vice Chancellor, Prof. (Dr.) Chanchal Kumar Singh (officiating) lent further prestige to the event. It was during this culminating stage that Aarushi Arora, a 2ndyear B.B.A. LL.B. student, emerged as the winner. Arush Kalsotra, 1^st Year B.A. LL.B. student emerged as the 1^st runner-up. Vanshika Maan and Prajjwal Sharma, 4^th Year B.A. LL.B. students emerged as the 2^nd runners-up.

The event concluded with a gracious vote of thanks delivered by the Centre’s Director, Dr. Chandreshwari Minhas, Associate Professor (Law), underscoring not only the celebration of intellectual prowess but also the paramount importance of fostering comprehensive systems dedicated to safeguarding our planet. Such events hold the promise of shaping a brighter future for aspiring minds, instilling a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship and responsibility