Shimla, 24.04.2026
The Centre for Environmental Studies in collaboration with the Legal Aid Clinic, HPNLU, Shimla, under the leadership of Prof. (Dr.) Priti Saxena, Vice Chancellor, successfully organized a Legal Awareness Workshop on 22nd April 2026 to mark Earth Day. The workshop, themed “Our Power, Our Planet,” brought together eminent experts, academicians, and students to deliberate on critical environmental and legal issues, with a focus on promoting sustainable practices, strengthening environmental governance, and encouraging collective action for climate resilience and ecological preservation.
The workshop served as a significant platform to inspire awareness and responsibility among individuals, communities, and institutions towards environmental stewardship. The theme underscored the importance of empowering communities to undertake actionable measures for environmental protection, transition to renewable energy, and achieving sustainable development, while emphasizing that collective efforts are essential to drive systemic change.
The event was graced by Prof. (Dr.) Uday Shankar, Dean, Rajiv Gandhi School of Intellectual Property Law, IIT Kharagpur, who delivered an insightful address on the legal dimensions of energy governance in India. He elaborated on the framework of the Electricity Act, 2003, highlighting the intersection of energy access, equity, environmental sustainability, and the functioning of energy distribution systems.
The Chief Guest, Dr. Sanjay Sood, Indian Forest Service, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force, Himachal Pradesh, traced the evolution of the global environmental movement. He referred to Rachel Carson’s seminal work Silent Spring (1962) as a turning point in environmental consciousness and highlighted key milestones such as the Stockholm Conference (1972) and the Earth Summit, Rio (1992), which led to the adoption of Agenda 21. He further emphasized the critical role of forests in maintaining ecological balance, particularly in the fragile mountain ecosystems of Himachal Pradesh.
Prof. (Dr.) Priti Saxena, Vice Chancellor, HPNLU, Shimla, presided over the session and emphasized the transformative power of community participation in addressing environmental challenges. She highlighted the pivotal role of law universities in fostering environmental awareness and legal literacy, urging students and faculty to translate knowledge into meaningful action within society.
The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Dr. Alok Kumar, Registrar, HPNLU, Shimla. The workshop witnessed active participation from students and faculty members, reflecting a strong institutional commitment to environmental awareness. The event was meticulously organized by Dr. Chandreshwari Minhas, Director, Centre for Environmental Studies and Chairperson, Legal Aid Clinic.
PRO, HPNLU, Shimla
pro@hpnlu.ac.in
