On 6th March 2025, YUVA India collaborated with Janvi Charitable Trust to conduct an enlightening session on environment and cleanliness at the Janvi Trust Centre, located in Chandivali, Saki Naka, Andheri, Mumbai. The event aimed to educate children about the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy environment through an engaging and interactive approach. The centre was filled with excitement as all the children gathered to participate in this meaningful activity.

The session was conducted by Ms Vanita Salunke from YUVA India, while Mr Ashley Pereira represented Janvi Charitable Trust. The session was designed to foster creativity, teamwork, and awareness about environmental issues among young learners.

Engaging Young Learners Through Art and Creativity

To make the session more interactive, Ms Vanita Salunke divided the children into four groups. Each group was given a picture for colouring, featuring different types of pollution: air pollution, water pollution, land pollution, and noise pollution.

The instructions were simple yet impactful—children were asked to colour their pictures, identify the type of pollution depicted, give a suitable title to the picture, and explain their understanding within their groups. This activity helped the children visually interpret environmental issues while encouraging creativity and teamwork.

Children’s Presentations and Interpretations

Once the colouring activity was completed, each group eagerly presented their work. They confidently explained the type of pollution illustrated in their pictures and its impact on the environment and human life. Their insights and enthusiasm were truly commendable.

1. Air Pollution – The first group displayed a picture illustrating factories emitting smoke, vehicles releasing exhaust gases, and waste being burned. They explained how air pollution leads to breathing problems, climate change, and acid rain.
2. Water Pollution – The second group showcased a polluted river filled with plastic waste, industrial discharge, and dead fish. They discussed how contaminated water harms marine life, spreads diseases, and reduces safe drinking water sources.
3. Land Pollution – The third group illustrated an environment littered with plastic waste, household rubbish, and chemical spills. They highlighted the damage to soil fertility, harm to wildlife, and the importance of proper waste disposal.
4. Noise Pollution – The fourth group depicted a city with blaring vehicle horns, loudspeakers, and construction work. They explained how excessive noise leads to stress, hearing impairments, and disturbed sleep patterns.

The children demonstrated an impressive ability to identify key environmental issues and suggested practical solutions to reduce pollution in their daily lives.

Interactive Discussion and Environmental Awareness

Following the presentations, a lively discussion was held where the children and facilitators explored deeper aspects of environmental cleanliness and sustainability. Key discussion points included:

• The importance of a clean and green environment for a healthier life.
• Simple actions to reduce pollution, such as using dustbins, planting trees, and reducing plastic waste.
• The role of trees in purifying air and maintaining ecological balance.
• Water conservation techniques, including rainwater harvesting and avoiding water wastage.
• The negative effects of noise pollution and ways to reduce excessive noise in residential areas.

The children were eager to share their thoughts and real-life observations, demonstrating a strong understanding of the topic. Many of them pledged to adopt cleaner habits and encourage their peers and families to do the same.

A Successful Initiative for Environmental Awareness

The session was a remarkable success, as it not only educated children about environmental issues but also empowered them to be active participants in promoting cleanliness and sustainability. Using art as a medium proved to be an effective way to make learning more engaging and memorable.

Mr Ashley Pereira from Janvi Charitable Trust expressed his appreciation, stating, “This session was an excellent way to engage children in environmental awareness. By involving them in a creative activity, we ensure that they understand the importance of keeping their surroundings clean and protecting nature.”

Ms Vanita Salunke from YUVA India also shared her insights, saying, “It was truly inspiring to see the enthusiasm of the children. When young minds are given the right platform to learn and express themselves, they become responsible citizens of the future. We look forward to organising more such impactful sessions.”

Conclusion: Inspiring the Next Generation for a Cleaner Future

This collaborative effort between YUVA India and Janvi Charitable Trust demonstrated how hands-on activities can make environmental education more effective and enjoyable. By combining colouring, group discussions, and presentations, children developed a deeper understanding of pollution and cleanliness in a fun and engaging manner.

Educating young minds is the key to a sustainable and cleaner future. If every child takes small steps towards environmental responsibility today, the world will be a healthier and greener place for generations to come.

YUVA India remains committed to fostering environmental awareness and looks forward to organising more initiatives that empower communities to contribute towards a cleaner and healthier planet.

Let’s work together to make a difference – one step at a time! 🌍💚