NATIONAL GREEN CORPS

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE ASSIGNMENT

NANKI SINGH; 22/0827

RIVKA VASUDEVA; 22/0225
DEPARTMENT OF JOURNALISM

INTRODUCTION

National Green Corps (NGC) is a programme launched by the Ministry of

Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Govt. of India (MOEF & CC, GoI,) for
Schools in H.P. in the year 2001 to teach environmental awareness among
schools/college children and to involve them for carrying out environment-related
activities through Eco-Clubs. Under this programme, on average, 250 Eco-Clubs
in the schools have been set up in every District of all States/UTs. All Kendriya
Vidyalaya’s, Navodaya Vidyalaya’s, and Schools affiliated to the CBSE and
ICSE are also participating in the programme.
Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology and Environment,
(HIMCOSTE) as a Nodal Agency has established 3000 Eco-Clubs in schools and
100 Colleges in the State under the NGC programme.

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

NGC aims to provide opportunities for school

children to redirect their consciousness and
actions to create a more sustainable planet.
Through novel educational approaches and
experiences, students are taught to go into issues
in-depth. The objectives of the programme are
as follows:

• To impart knowledge to school children,

through hands-on experience, about their
immediate environment, interactions
within it and the problems therein
• To develop requisite observation,
experimentation, survey, recording,
 analysis and reasoning skills for conserving the environment through
various activities.
• To inculcate proper attitudes towards the environment and its
conservation through community interactions.
• To sensitize children to issues related to environment and
development through field visits and demonstrations.
• To promote logical and independent thinking among children so that
they are able to make the right choices in a spirit of scientific inquiry.
• To motivate and stimulate young minds by involving them in action
projects related to environmental conservation.

STRUCTURE OF THE NATIONAL GREEN CORPS

NGC operates through a structured framework that involves educational

institutions, government bodies, and non-governmental organizations. The key
components include:

SCHOOL ECO-CLUBS
NGC establishes eco-clubs in schools,
acting as hubs for environmental
activities. These clubs serve as
platforms for students to engage in eco-
friendly initiatives, seminars, and
workshops.

TRAINING PROGRAMS
NGC provides training programs for teachers, ensuring they are equipped to
impart environmental education effectively. These programs cover topics such
as climate change, waste management, and sustainable practices.

COMMUNITY PROJECTS
The NGC encourages students to initiate and participate in community-based
projects, ranging from tree-planting drives to waste management initiatives.
These projects not only benefit the environment but also foster a sense of
community among the participants.

NATIONAL EVENTS
NGC organizes national-level events, competitions, and campaigns to showcase
and reward outstanding environmental initiatives undertaken by schools and
eco-clubs.
MAJOR ACTIVITIES UNDER NGC

Under the National Green Corps (NGC) scheme, a comprehensive set of

activities is undertaken across 52 districts, encompassing 25,500 eco-club
schools and 100 colleges. The scheme involves the efficient implementation of
NGC in these educational institutions, with a focus on disseminating NGC
grants through RTGS and PFMS. Close coordination is maintained with District
Education Officers and Assistant Commissioner Tribal Districts for the
organization of eco-club activities.
The initiative includes organizing state-level orientation workshops for Nodal
Officers, Master Trainers, and quiz masters, as well as district-level orientation
workshops for Eco-club Incharge teachers. The NGC scheme actively
participates in environmental awareness by facilitating the celebration of
various environmental days.
Additionally, the initiative engages in report and documentation of ongoing
programs, conducts meetings with relevant government departments, and
organizes nature camps for students in national parks, sanctuaries, and eco-
tourism spots.
Other key components involve capacity building programs for stakeholders,
Swachhta programs for eco-club students and teachers, and the design and
development of resource materials, e-newsletters, and presentations for eco-club
schools. Furthermore, the NGC scheme plays a role in organizing state-level
Mowgli Bal Utsav and Green Ganesh Awareness Programs, contributing
significantly to environmental education and awareness across the state.

CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

The National Green Corps (NGC) scheme, while commendable in its scope and
objectives, faces certain challenges that warrant attention for its sustained
success. One notable challenge is the need for enhanced financial support and
resource allocation to effectively implement the NGC activities across a diverse
range of schools and colleges. Ensuring consistent engagement and participation
from all stakeholders, including students, teachers, and district-level officials,
poses another challenge that requires strategic communication and coordination
efforts. Additionally, the long-term sustainability of NGC initiatives may be
hindered by insufficient awareness and integration into the broader education
system.
However, amidst these challenges lie significant opportunities for the NGC
scheme. Harnessing the power of technology for remote learning and virtual
engagement can overcome geographical barriers and reach a wider audience.
Collaboration with private sector entities, NGOs, and international
organizations can bring additional resources and expertise to the NGC
initiatives. Strengthening partnerships with environmental agencies and
incorporating contemporary environmental issues into the curriculum can
enhance the relevance and impact of NGC activities. Furthermore, leveraging
social media platforms for awareness campaigns and community involvement
can amplify the scheme's reach and influence.

CONCLUSION

The National Green Corps (NGC) stands as a vital initiative in cultivating

environmental consciousness and sustainable practices among the youth. While
challenges exist, the opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and the
integration of technology provide a promising path forward. By addressing
financial constraints, fostering widespread stakeholder engagement, and
adapting to evolving educational landscapes, NGC can truly become a
transformative force in nurturing environmentally responsible citizens. The
future directions for NGC should emphasize adaptability, sustainability, and
global relevance, ensuring that the program remains dynamic and impactful in
the ever-changing context of environmental education.