Shimla CMS VATAVARAN inaugurated on July 2 at Gaeity Theatre

The much awaited Shimla CMS VATAVARAN 2010 was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Minister (PWD) Thakur Gulab Singh at Gaiety Theatre. The inaugural film that was shown during the program was “The Weeping Apple Tree” by Vijay S Jodha. Other dignitaries present on the occasion were Dr N Bhaskara Rao (Chairman, CMS), Ms Manisha Nanda (IAS), Sri AK Gulati (PCCF), Ms Madhu Sud (Mayor), Prof SP Bansal (Director, Institute of Integrated Himalayas), and Ms Vandana Thaplayal (state Director-WWF-India).

Green heroes felicitated

During the inaugural ceremony several green heroes were felicitated. These were:

• Ms Jodie Underhill: For her garbage collection drive, and efforts towards educating the local people and vendors about the scientific disposal of biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste.

• Mr Mayank Ranjan Gupta: For taking the green movement forward through the medium of films and documentaries focusing on issues ranging from ecotourism to natural heritage and culture.

• Mr Vivek Mohan: For effectively capturing the environmental problems of Himachal Pradesh and presenting them through the power of visual media.


• Dr Sanjeev Attari: For taking the green initiative forward through an interesting mix of research and outreach activities among youngsters