Mysore/Mysuru: Dr. M.P. Varsha, cultural advisor to Vice-President of Nepal Government, underscored the invaluable role of books in shaping individuals’ lives at different stages. He highlighted how books instil life values in childhood, guide youths away from negative paths, offer solutions in married life and teach older individuals to remain active.

Speaking at the World Earth Day and World Book Day celebrations organised by the Lions Club of Mysore Ambassador at a private hotel on Ring Road recently, Dr. Varsha underscored the significance of books as companions. He expressed concern over the declining trend of readership and urged people to prioritise reading, whether online or offline mediums.

Dr. Varsha said that books are often likened to good friends and stressed the importance of reading before delivering any speech. He urged individuals to cultivate the habit of reading books to enhance their knowledge.

On World Earth Day, Dr. Varsha expressed deep concern about decline in environmental health and ecology. He highlighted climate change as a direct consequence of environmental degradation and lamented lack of practical action in conservation efforts despite widespread discussions on the topic. 

Stressing the vital link between life and a healthy environment, he emphasised the collective responsibility of every individual in safeguarding the Earth. Dr. Varsha also criticised the excessive wastage of water and urged everyone to reconsider their water usage habits and stressed the importance of conserving water for the well-being of both humans and animals.

K.H. Urvish Prashanth, who secured second place and Shreya Ganesh Iyer, who attained fifth place, in II PU exam this year, were feted. Lions Club of Mysore Ambassador President H.C. Kantharaju, Secretary C.R. Dinesh, Treasurer K.T. Vishnu and others were present.