Carmel School celebrated Van Mahotsav on July 22, 2024, with great enthusiasm marking it as an important day to foster environmental awareness among students. Initiated as a national activity in 1950 by Mr. Kaniyalal Maniklal Munshi the then Minister for Food and Agriculture Van Mahotsav aims to encourage tree planting and forest conservation.

The celebration provided an excellent opportunity to instill the values of social responsibility in grade IV to VIII students emphasizing their role in safeguarding trees and forest cover. Through various activities students learned about the importance of a green environment and their contribution to a sustainable future. This event not only enhanced the school's green initiatives but also sensitized students to their critical role in environmental conservation.

The program began with an invocation for God's blessings through a heartfelt prayer service and a captivating prayer dance setting a serene and reverent tone for the day's activities.

Highlighting the theme "Plant More Trees" a powerful mime show was performed by the students. The poignant theme was beautifully portrayed through their choice of music, actions, and movements leaving a lasting impression on the audience. Additionally a theme dance performance brought cheerful smiles to everyone’s faces underscoring the joy of contributing to a greener planet.

The event was graced by the esteemed presence of the chief guest Mr. Ananda Deputy Range Forest Officer of Moodbidri. He was warmly welcomed by Sr. Maria Gracilda A.C.,the Principal of Carmel Schoolwith the symbolic gesture of presenting a potted sapling. In his address Mr. Ananda emphasized the significance of Van Mahotsav and encouraged students to actively participate in tree planting activities. His motivational words resonated deeply with everyone present, inspiring a renewed commitment to environmental stewardship.

As a highlight of the ceremony, Mr. Ananda and Sr. Maria Gracilda A.C.,planted a sapling symbolizing the school’s dedication to promoting Van Mahotsav and environmental conservation. Students enthusiastically followed suit exchanging saplings with their friends under the motto "Each One Plant One" reinforcing the collective responsibility towards nurturing nature.

The chief guest generously contributed 50 saplings to the children, significantly enhancing the Vanmahotsav celebration and promoting the importance of nurturing nature.

The programme was compered by Jerwin James Mendoncaand Mischelle Clara D’Souza .Idanth Shetty and Hemanth Gowda HV beautifully welcomed the gathering. Significance of the day was highlighted by Meldric Lewis and Shannen GlenD’Souza and Nathan D’Souza delivered the vote of thanks.

The celebration filled teachers and students with immense gratitude for the marvels of creation spreading joy and a sense of purpose throughout the school. Carmel School’s Van Mahotsav celebration was not just an event but a heartfelt initiative to instill a lifelong love for nature and a commitment to protecting our planet.