New Delhi June 7
In a unique initiative to promote Hindi and encourage discussion on social and environmental issues, the Rajbhasha Department of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) organised a special programme on World Environment Day at Rajiv Gandhi Bhawan, Safdarjung Airport, New Delhi.
The event centred on a reading and discussion of acclaimed Himachali writer S.R. Harnot’s widely discussed short story “Nadi Gayab Hai” (The River Has Disappeared). Renowned litterateur Dr Rajendra Gautam participated as the chief expert and led an in-depth discussion on the story’s literary and social dimensions.
More than 40 AAI officers and employees took part in the programme, reading the story collectively before engaging in a discussion on its themes. Unlike conventional official language programmes that often focus on technical training, the event sought to connect language promotion with contemporary social concerns.
A highlight of the programme came when S.R. Harnot joined the participants via video call from Shimla at the request of Dr Gautam. The interaction allowed participants to engage directly with the author and discuss the environmental and social issues raised in the story.
Dr Gautam noted that Harnot’s works, including novels such as Nadi Rang Jaisi Ladki, Hidimb and Ek Nadi Tadapti Hai, as well as stories like Aabhi, Bhagadevi Ka Chai and Bejubaan Dost, reflect deep concern for environmental conservation while portraying Himachal Pradesh’s folk culture and traditions.
Discussing Nadi Gayab Hai, he said the story highlights the destructive consequences of unchecked development, corporate greed and administrative collusion, showing how exploitation of natural resources can severely impact local communities and ecosystems.
AAI Executive Director (Administration) Maya Lawania, who attended the event, praised the initiative and emphasised the need for open discussions on environmental challenges.
“Given the alarming environmental situation, we must treat it as a challenge and work collectively towards solutions,” she said.
The programme was coordinated by Sanjeev Kumar, Joint General Manager (Rajbhasha), who highlighted its innovative format. Dr Gautam also lauded the initiative, saying such events help foster human sensitivity and social awareness among employees.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Deputy General Manager (Rajbhasha) Sanjeev Kumar.
