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Riko Eichner

Faith Communities, Academicians, Peace Educators, Social Entrepreneurs affirm for local climate solutions driven by Spirituality, Science, Peace, Stewardship and Indigenous Knowledge as Pathways towards Earth Restoration and Preservation. 1024 768 Riko Eichner

Faith Communities, Academicians, Peace Educators, Social Entrepreneurs affirm for local climate solutions driven by Spirituality, Science, Peace, Stewardship and Indigenous Knowledge as Pathways towards Earth Restoration and Preservation.

“We cannot be religious and Polluter at the same time”.

India Peace Centre celebrated Environment Week during 1 – 7 June 2026 across various of its chapters, in Nagpur, Bhubaneswar, Kolkata and Imphal.

The celebration in Nagpur affirmed the contribution of spirituality, science and indigenous knowledge as significant drivers and motivations for ecological safeguard and to stop further damage to the eco-system. Mr.Angelious Michael, Director of the India Peace Centre led through an impactful climate spiritual meditation and thematic session challenging the participants saying

“We cannot be religious and Polluter at the same time”.

Our spiritual practices need to be reflected in our actions towards the Mother Earth, he added. The celebration included climate meditation under the Peepal tree displaying spirituality; Plantation of Mango tree demonstrating collective climate action and Indigenous knowledge and Thematic presentation exhibiting scientific solutions. Dr.Tejinder Singh Rawal inaugurated the celebration spoke about various environmental crisis of our time and how each crisis is becoming big threat to the eco-system and bio-diversity posing serious threat to future. The celebration was attended by academicians, social entrepreneurs, faith representatives and medical professionals. 

The Bhubaneswar Chapter of IPC in collaboration with the Local Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is celebrated World Environment Day objectifying pondering on climate solutions through spirituality, education, peace, and environmental stewardship. While the students expressed their thoughts on environmental care through artistic expression, the academicians, peace educator emphasized on sustainable living with good practices. Ms.Ompriya Rath, IPC Board Member and Coordinator of the Bhubaneswar Chapter, called upon the participants to be reminded of the relevance of faith towards climate action and biodiversity conservation. Mrs. Nadia Moghbelpour, founder of Blossom School facilitated the programme and spoke about the importance of spirituality, education, peace, and environmental stewardship in building a sustainable future. Prof Rabindra Garada deliberated on the growing challenges of climate change and shared how the university community promotes sustainable living through initiatives such as bicycle-only Saturdays.

The Kolkata Chapter of IPC in collaboration with the Shining Earth Foundation organized multiple events including poster making by school children on environmental conservation and sustainable living that illustrated ideas related to tree plantation, water conservation, pollution control, and clean surroundings. Drawing session was organized presenting the importance of protecting nature, reducing pollution, and adopting eco-friendly habits. Environment Awareness Program & Plantation Drive were organized with the participation of community members, volunteers, and children. Discussions held focused on the importance of environmental conservation, waste management, water conservation, and the role of individuals in creating a sustainable future. Mr.Sourav Saktel, Coordinator of the Kolkata Chapter emphasized on the urgent need to accelerate climate education in schools and other educational institutions that would help change of behaviour and actions towards nature.

The Imphal Chapter of the IPC organized a cleanliness event at a relief camp in Imphal focussing on hygiene, good health, cleanliness related safety. The community of the camp were involved in. They also planted trees as part of climate resilience and protection. Ms.Nanao Laishram, Coordinator of the Imphal Chapter shared abut the community’s engagement for clean and healthy environment need to be strengthened and encouraged.

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World Environment Day

As part of its commitment to building sustainable and peaceful and climate resilient communities, the India Peace Centre is observing World Environment Week from 1st to 7th June 2025 across its various chapters in India. Through collective action and community participation, the week seeks to encourage greater ecological responsibility and renewed commitment towards caring for the Earth.

The celebrations will take place across all the IPC chapters. The programs include awareness sessions, climate workshops, tree plantation drives, creative competitions, and interfaith gatherings promoting ecological harmony and sustainable living.

Under the theme “Together for a Greener Future,” India Peace Centre invites everyone to participate in this collective journey towards environmental care, ecological sensitivity, and a more sustainable future for all.

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World earth day

On the occasion of World Earth Day, the Nagpur Chapter of India Peace Centre organised a meaningful and engaging program on 22nd April 2026 at India Peace Centre, Civil Lines, Nagpur. The program was centered around the theme of sustainable living and environmental responsibility.

There were two special highlights of the event:

1. The “Swap PreLoved Things” initiative, which was conducted by RJ Preeti, has witnessed enthusiastic participation from a good number of people. Participants brought along their gently used, good-quality items. These items included clothes and books, as well as household goods, and shared them with others. The atmosphere was filled with joy and openness, as individuals freely chose and took items they needed, without any hesitation or prejudices. This thoughtful exchange promoted a spirit of community, equality, and conscious consumption.

2. A sustainable painting workshop conducted by an artist, Nikita. She demonstrated how to create beautiful artwork using natural ingredients such as turmeric, leaves, sunlight and water, encouraging participants to explore eco-friendly artistic practices.

This event was attended and largely appreciated by distinguished members, including the Director Angelious Michael, Treasurer and IPC Board Member Dr Tejinder Singh Rawal, along with other associates of IPC.

Adding to the vibrant ambience, Mohnissh and other performers presented soothing musical pieces, enhancing the overall experience and bringing people together through art and music.

The core idea behind the initiative was to promote environmental conservation by reducing waste and encouraging the reuse of items that might otherwise be discarded. By giving these items a second life, the event emphasised a simple yet powerful message: small collective actions can significantly help preserve the Earth.

Overall, the program was a heartfelt and impactful celebration of sustainability, community spirit, and shared responsibility towards our planet.

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Academy on Ecology

About 25 young people representing various chapters of the India Peace Centre and universities from across India gathered in Bhubaneswar to attend the Academy on Ecology during 25-29 March 2026.

Academy on Ecology, a training workshop under the first three foci, Environment, Ecology and Energy of the objectives of the India Peace Centre, contained three components: Academic Learning, Practical Exposure, and Sharing of Stories by the participants. The five-day intensive learning programme emphasised understanding the trends of climate change, the UN’s role in combating fossil fuel-based emissions, climate-induced migration, climate mitigation and adaptation, climate and gender, and building climate-resilient communities.

Academicians, community workers, environmentalists, and activists contributed through various input sessions and inspired the participants.

Dr Asir Ebenezer, Chairperson of the India Peace Centre, in his inaugural address, invited the participants to “prioritise ecological challenges for fostering a sustainable planet”.

Dr Rabindra Garada, Head of the Department of Sociology at Utkal University, Odisha, highlighted the cosmic aspect of enhancing life to make living together possible.

The participants also visited the Indian Institute of Water Management and gained insights into water sustainability and the dynamics related to conserving water as a vital resource.

At the end of the Academy, the participants proposed three-year plans as part of their committed engagement on climate justice and to accompany IPC’s climate objectives.

The Academy on Ecology was facilitated by the IPC Bhubaneswar Chapter under the leadership of Ms Ompriya Rath, member of the Board of Trustees of IPC.

Mr Angelious Michael, Director of the India Peace Centre, led most of the technical sessions and, in his concluding speech, praised the participants for their engaging participation. He said, “Our responsibility to sustain the ecology is not for the ecology alone, but together with it.”

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Talking stories

Save the date: Every 2nd Friday in the month, starting at 12th September.

The objective

“Talking Stories” shall be a monthly gathering at India Peace Centre in which we exchange about stories of various kind that are related to the objectives of IPC. We want to discuss about peace, justice, and environment related topics. “Talking Stories” is telling and hearing stories, analysing and discuss. This review and storytelling sessions shall be a place to exchange about ideas and good stories and also discuss, what we might learn from each other.

The concept

Every meeting few (one to three) people bring a story they want to share with the group. This might be a movie or documentary we watch together, a short story that is read out at the meeting or a book presentation with a sample reading. The concept is kept freely. People can bring a story they like, tell it, and give information about it in whatever way they like. It is also possible to read out or tell a story of your own origin. However, it should match with the objectives of India Peace Centre (peace, justice, environment related topics). After the story we talk about it. There is room for questions, thoughts and feelings about the story and a discussion between the participants. The person(s) who present the story might also moderate/host the discussion. There shall be different people presenting their stories each meeting. You can also do it in groups of two or three people.

Expected outcome

The goal is to broaden our horizon via storytelling and sharing knowledge. We want to celebrate the power of stories. Stories depict various issues and human concerns in a way you can relate to it. A well-made story makes you dive into it, feel with the characters, and understand their struggles not only intellectual but also emotionally. So, in sharing our stories we offer understanding of our struggles and concerns to the other people that listen to it. The program also contributes to the objectives of the India Peace Centre engaging with peace and environmental issues as well as social justice. The goal is to have a gathering of interested and engaged people to fill the campus of IPC with life and meaningful conversations. Finally, it is also about building a good relationship with one another and have some fun. The idea is that everyone dives into their own interests so that the program does not feel like exhausting extra work but as an activity that can be enjoyed. When we all share content of our own interest, we will also develop and broaden our very own interests in exchanging with others.

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School of peace

School of Peace has been an ongoing program of the India Peace Centre for many years now – that had also been known as Interfaith School of Peace earlier.

The School of Peace is designed as a training program aimed to coach youth and students on Peace Education. The India Peace Centre believes; peace is multidimensional and not just the absence of war or conflict. It reflects life, dignity, and integrity. India Peace Centre together along with its regional Chapters reflected on the necessity of peace education for young people.

Four School of Peace were organized in the year 2024-25 at Khurda (Odisha), Shillong (Meghalaya), Gandhi Nagar (Gujarat) and Pathnamthita (Kerala).

The India Peace Centre (IPC), in collaboration with KT Global School and Master Peace, organized the School of Peace Program in Khordha, Odisha, from September 18th to September 21st, 2024. This event marked the inaugural session of the four School of Peace Programs envisioned by the India Peace Centre for the year 2024 and 2025. Formerly known as the Interfaith School of Peace, the program has undergone a remarkable evolution. While it continues to embrace the essence of interfaith dialogue, the School of Peace Program now envisions a comprehensive training module for youth centred on the principles of Peace Education. It seeks to disseminate the multidimensional aspects of peacebuilding, advancing well beyond the notion of negative peace, which is merely the absence of conflict. The core idea is to equip youth with the essential tenets of peace: Life, Dignity, and Integrity.

The Second School of Peace was held from 20th to 22nd November 2024 at the Rural Resource Centre in Umran, Meghalaya. This event was organized by India Peace Centre in collaboration with North East India Christian Council (NEICC) Peace Centre. The programme brought together 47 participants from various NEICC units, along with special invitees.

The Third School of Peace was held at Gandhinagar, Gujarat from 27th to 30th November, 2024 at Jeevantirth. About 20 youth participated in the four days extensive program.

The four days training highlighted:

Life and Dignity

Indigenous people, gender equity, child protection, youth formation, education, SDGs

Sustainable Planet

Climate Change, SDGs, UN Climate Conference, Sustainable, life style, economy, and ecology, agriculture

Just and Inclusive Communities

Interfaith relations and harmony, equity and justice, overcoming, discrimination and prejudices

The fourth School of Peace was held at Pathnamthita, Kerala at the Rajan Ecumenical Foundation from 6th to 9th March 2025. About 30 youth attended the program. The four school of peace brought together about 130 youth and students together to reflect on peace from the perspective of justice, life, dignity and integrity.

The first School of Peace Program brought this vision to life with profound impact. The overarching emphasis of the four-day training was on the interconnection of peace with justice, intercultural and inter-religious harmony, environmental stewardship, and the use of sustainable technologies. The training program witnessed active participation from 25 youth, 8 organizations, 10 distinguished scholars, and over 100 school students. This report offers a glimpse into this transformative journey.