Environment management not only plays an instrumental role in optimally utilizing natural resources but also forms the pivot of sustainable development. To reinforce India’s efforts towards effective environment management, the Environment Information System (ENVIS) Hub was established at the Punjab State Council for Science and Technology (PSCST) in the year 2004-05. This initiative was launched under the plan programme of the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India (MoEF&CC, GoI). In 2022, the ENVIS Scheme was subsumed under the revamped scheme of Environment Education, Awareness, Research and Skill Development (EEARSD). This scheme has three components and one of the components is Environmental Information, Awareness, Capacity Building, and Livelihood Programme (EIACP). EIACP is currently implemented through 60 Centres, comprising 26 State-Specific Centres and 34 Resource Partner (RP) Thematic Centres. The EIACP uses a network of decentralized framework endowed with the agenda of integrating country-wide efforts towards environmental conservation and management. It encompasses the best functional aspects of the erstwhile ENVIS Scheme.

 

Preparation of Repository of Environmental Knowledge

Hub collects information pertaining to Status of Environment and related Issues of state, maintains and updates the state-specific database, develops value-added information in form of environmental videos/documentaries, research papers/publications, case studies, success stories, newsletters, state specific reports etc. The information thus collected/developed is disseminated through a dedicated website.

 

Capacity Building/Outreach Programme

Hub conducts capacity building/outreach initiatives in environment and its related sectors as identified by the MoEF&CC, GoI in line with calendar of activities for the major environmental days and organize activities, competitions, mass awareness campaigns and events such as lectures, workshops, exhibitions, Nature Walks etc.

 

Green Skills Development Programme (GSDP)

Hub promotes implements, coordinates and monitors GSDP in the State of Punjab. Hub also updates the extant GSDP courses from time to time as per requirement and formulate new training modules for new GSDP courses determined by MoEF&CC, GoI based on market demand through industrial validation.

 

Mission LiFE

Mission LiFE pioneered by India, is the driver for sustainable and climate friendly lifestyles. It aims to create a coalition of pro-planet people and a mass movement for sustainable lifestyles. EIACP Hub is actively involved in implementation of activities/action plan of Mission LiFE developed/directed by MoEF&CC, GoI.