Shimla, October 17 — The Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board (HPSPCB) has launched a series of awareness campaigns across government schools in the state to promote a clean and green Diwali, in line with the directions of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.
The state-wide initiative, aimed at reducing air and noise pollution during the festive season, was carried out in educational institutions across Bilaspur, Kangra, Shimla, Chamba, Una, Sirmaur, Solan, and Hamirpur districts.
Officials said the central laboratory of HPSPCB in Parwanoo organised a “Swachh Deepawali, Harit Deepawali” programme at Government Senior Secondary School, Patta Masulkhana, as part of the ‘Harit Deepawali’ initiative. Students participated in slogan-writing and rangoli competitions, followed by an awareness rally to educate the public on the harmful effects of firecrackers.
Similarly, the regional laboratory at Paonta Sahib held an awareness event at PM SHRI Government Senior Secondary and Primary School, Bechar Ka Baag, in Sirmaur district. The event featured poster-making, slogan-writing, and declamation contests that encouraged students to share creative messages about celebrating a pollution-free Diwali.
“The bursting of firecrackers causes severe air and noise pollution. Everyone must adopt greener, safer ways to celebrate for a healthier environment,” said Hitender Kumar Sharma, principal scientific officer of HPSPCB, while addressing students. A student rally through nearby villages further amplified the message of sustainable celebration. Winners of various competitions were awarded certificates and prizes.
In Hamirpur district, another programme was held at Government Senior Secondary School, Ghaniara, where students took out a rally promoting the message of a “Clean and Green Diwali.” Satvinder Kaur, scientific officer from the regional laboratory in Dari, urged participants to avoid crackers and choose eco-friendly alternatives.
Officials said the awareness drives are part of the government’s larger campaign to encourage responsible festive practices and protect the state’s fragile hill environment. “Children are the best ambassadors of change, and such initiatives help build awareness at the community level,” an HPSPCB spokesperson noted.
