Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University organized a programme at Mansar Lake, a world renowned Ramsar Site, to mark celebration of World Wetland Day. The programme started with nature walk around the Mansar Lake which was participated by faculty members, research scholars and students drawn from School of Mechanical and Civil Engineering, Department of Energy Management, and School of Biotechnology, SMVDU. On this occasion, a special lecture by Padma Shri Prof RK Sinha, Vice Chancellor SMVDU, was held. Popularly known as the Dolphin Man of India, Prof Sinha emphasized the importance of Mansar and Surinsar lakes in providing assured drinking water supply, ground water recharging besides providing refuge to flora and fauna.He stressed the need for preserving wetlands in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir for providing shelter to both the local and migratory birds and ensuring food chain health. He highlighted the cultural and social significance of the wetlands especially Mansar lake in Jammu region. He exhorted the younger generation to work for wetland protection also for aesthetic and Wellness aspects.

"Let us not command nature and instead start obeying nature," he commented. Further, he emphasized the need for preserving the wetlands for sustainable development and avoiding ill effects of climate change and consumerism.Later, the participants enjoyed ethnic Dogra Food in environment friendly doona pattal.Nagendra Singh Jamwal, JKAS Registrar, Prof. Ashok Sharma, Dean Faculty of Sciences, Professor Shardha Potukuchi, Head, School of Biotechnology, HG Mishra, Dean, Student welfare and Bhawna, Astt Registrar also attended the event.