Envirothon – Run for Environment, organized by TERRE Policy Centre, an internationally active organization in the field of environmental conservation, in collaboration with Tata Steel Colors Pvt. Ltd., was held enthusiastically on Sunday morning at the Pune Rural Police Hockey Ground, Pashan. Around 800 environmentally conscious citizens from different parts of the state participated in the event, spreading the message of environmental conservation.
The event was organized on the occasion of World Environment Day. This year marked the fifth edition of the competition, which has gained recognition as a unique initiative that combines environmental awareness and health promotion. Participants from Pune, Daund, Mumbai, Delhi, Haryana, Assam, and Karnataka took part in the event. Competitions were conducted in 3 km, 5 km, and 10 km categories.
The race was flagged off by Pune Rural Superintendent of Police Sandeepsingh Gill, Deputy Superintendent Rajendra Mayane, and Dr. Rohan Khavate. Participants displayed great enthusiasm throughout the event.
The prize distribution ceremony was conducted in the presence of veteran runner Ashish Kasodekar, Mahendra Pingale, General Manager of Tata Steel Colors Pvt. Ltd., Dr. Vinita Apte, Founder of TERRE Policy Centre, Google officials Vijay Kumar and Umesh Kumar, Dr. Rohan Khavate, and Anil Utpat.
Speaking on the occasion, Ashish Kasodekar said, “Running is an activity that strengthens the body. Through Envirothon, both human health and nature are nurtured and protected. This is extremely important.”
Mahendra Pingale stated, “At Tata Steel, we continuously work towards environmental protection. In the manufacturing of roofing sheets, we use paints that do not harm the environment, and these products can also be recycled.”
Dr. Vinita Apte said, “The various initiatives undertaken by TERRE Policy Centre with the support of Tata Steel are receiving an increasingly positive response. As the challenge of global warming becomes more severe, it is essential to further strengthen environmental conservation awareness across society.”
The event was anchored by Mrunmayee Apte and Rutuja Ingle.
TERRE (Technology, Education, Research and Rehabilitation for the Environment) works in the fields of tree plantation, urban garden development, mangrove conservation, well rejuvenation, environmental education, and public awareness. The organization has planted and nurtured more than 1.3 million trees across Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Assam, Goa, Rajasthan, and Odisha. Through initiatives such as Envirothon, TERRE continues to spread the message of environmental conservation to various sections of society, organizers informed.
