Dastak Youth Festival Phase Two Commences with Strong Environmental Focus in Lucknow
The second phase of the highly anticipated 18th Dastak Youth Festival officially launched on Friday in Lucknow, marking a significant step forward in promoting environmental consciousness and empowering young people to lead sustainability efforts. This phase is strategically designed to sensitize the public through innovative, relatable, and engaging mediums that resonate with diverse audiences.
Establishing Eco Clubs and Creative Outreach Programs
Under this ambitious initiative, eco clubs will be established in a minimum of 55 colleges across the region. These clubs will serve as dynamic platforms for students to actively participate in creative outreach programs. The activities planned are diverse and impactful, including:
- The production of short videos and short films that highlight environmental issues.
- Engaging street plays and skits performed in public spaces to raise awareness.
- Thematic exhibitions that visually demonstrate the importance of sustainability.
Students will take a leading role in spreading crucial awareness on pressing issues such as water conservation, comprehensive environmental protection, effective waste management strategies, and the promotion of eco-tourism. The festival is being organized with robust support from the UP Tourism Department, Yuva Club, and various Eco Tourism initiatives, ensuring a collaborative and well-resourced effort.
Youth as Changemakers and Key Insights from Organizers
Deepak Kabir, the founder of the Dastak Youth Festival, emphasized that youth participation is absolutely essential for driving meaningful behavioral change in society. "Students are powerful changemakers, and by empowering them to create content and organize activities, we are encouraging peer learning and deep community engagement," he stated. This approach leverages the energy and creativity of young people to foster a culture of environmental stewardship.
Sangita Jaiswal, co-founder and coordinator of Dastak, highlighted the urgency of the festival's mission. "With climate concerns and water scarcity emerging as major global challenges, the second phase of Dastak Youth Festival aims to transform campuses into vibrant hubs of environmental action. Our goal is to inspire young citizens to actively contribute towards building a sustainable future," she explained. This vision underscores the festival's role in addressing critical environmental issues through youth mobilization.
Recognition and Future Plans
To motivate and acknowledge outstanding efforts, winning teams from the various competitions and initiatives will be awarded during the closing ceremony. This event is scheduled for March 21, which coincidentally aligns with World Forest Day, adding symbolic significance to the celebrations. The festival's structure not only educates but also rewards innovation and dedication, creating a holistic environment for youth development and environmental advocacy.
The Dastak Youth Festival continues to grow as a pivotal platform for nurturing the next generation of environmental leaders. By integrating education, creativity, and community action, it sets a powerful example for how youth-led initiatives can drive substantial progress in sustainability and ecological awareness across Uttar Pradesh and beyond.
