One–Day National Seminar on War, Weapons, and the Wounded Earth: Reimagining Environmental Safeguards in Armed Conflict

Kamkus College of Law, Ghaziabad, successfully organized a thought-provoking National Seminar on August 30th, 2025, titled “War, Weapons, and the Wounded Earth: Reimagining Environmental Safeguards in Armed Conflict.” The seminar aimed to shed light on the devastating and long-lasting environmental consequences of armed conflicts, which often transcend borders and generations. The event brought together distinguished speakers, legal scholars, environmental experts, and students to engage in meaningful dialogue on the intersection of warfare and ecological preservation.

Objectives of the Seminar:
  • To explore the environmental impact of modern warfare.
  • To discuss international legal frameworks and environmental safeguards during armed conflict.
  • To encourage academic research and student participation in environmental law and policy.
  • To promote awareness and responsibility among future legal professionals.
Inaugural Session:

The National Seminar was held at the Library Hall of Kamkus College of Law, Ghaziabad. The program commenced at approximately 11:00 AM with a traditional lamp lighting ceremony, symbolizing the dispelling of ignorance and the ushering in of knowledge. This sacred ritual was followed by the melodious rendition of Saraswati Vandana, which imbued the gathering with a serene and spiritual ambiance.

The dignitaries present on the dais included Maj. Gen. P.K. Saighal (Retd.), Prof. (Dr.) Priya Ranjan Trivedi, the world-renowned environmental scientist, Prof. (Dr.) Surendra Kumar Pathak, Emirates Professor, Department of Philosophy and Theology, Lok Jagriti University, Ahmedabad and Mr. Karunakar Sukul, Director KCL, Dr. Ambuj Sharma, Principal of KCL. Their esteemed presence added immense value and gravitas to the occasion. The act of lighting the ceremonial lamp marked the formal inauguration of the seminar, serving as a beacon of enlightenment, wisdom, and intellectual pursuit.

Following the invocation, a special segment was dedicated to honoring the distinguished guests. Each dignitary was presented with a bouquet as a token of appreciation and respect. This gesture of warmth and hospitality set a gracious and welcoming tone for the day’s proceedings, paving the way for the insightful sessions that followed.

Technical Session-1

The second technical session featured distinguished speakers who offered strategic, scientific, and technological insights on environmental protection during armed conflict.

  • Maj. Gen. P.K. Saighal (Retd.) opened the session with a compelling analysis of the environmental degradation caused by modern warfare. Drawing from his extensive military experience, he highlighted how strategic operations and weapon deployment often result in irreversible ecological damage, and stressed the need for integrating environmental considerations into defense planning and conflict resolution.
  • Prof. (Dr.) P.R. Trivedi, a globally renowned environmental scientist, emphasized the urgency of establishing global ecological accountability. He advocated for stronger international legal frameworks and collaborative efforts to safeguard natural ecosystems during and after armed conflicts. His address underscored the ethical responsibility of nations to protect the planet even amidst geopolitical tensions.
  • Prof. (Dr.) Surendra Kumar Pathak, with his multidisciplinary expertise in technology and media, explored the role of digital tools and communication platforms in documenting and mitigating environmental harm in conflict zones. He discussed how media coverage and technological innovation can serve as powerful instruments for advocacy, transparency, and policy reform.
  • A notable presence at the seminar was Mr. Karunakar Sukul, Director and Chief Mentor of Kamkus College of Law. His insightful observations and words of encouragement added depth to the proceedings and inspired both students and faculty alike. His commitment to academic excellence and his visionary leadership were evident throughout the event, making his appearance a source of motivation and pride for the institution.

A major highlight of this session was the launch of a book authored by Prof. (Dr.) Surendra Kumar Pathak and Dr. Ambuj Sharma, Principal of Kamkus College of Law. The book, titled “Artificial Intelligence in the Indian Legal System – Transformation, Challenges and Future Prospects,” explores the evolving role of AI in the Indian judiciary and legal practice. It delves into the transformative potential of emerging technologies, the challenges of integration, and the future trajectory of legal innovation in India. The unveiling of the book was met with appreciation from the academic community and added a significant scholarly milestone to the seminar.

Technical Session-2

The second technical session of the National Seminar at Kamkus College of Law highlighted the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and intellectual exploration. Law students from various semesters actively participated by presenting research papers on topics related to environmental law, armed conflict, and international humanitarian principles. Their presentations reflected rigorous scholarship and a deep understanding of the complex legal and ethical dimensions of warfare and environmental protection.

Organizing Committee -

The seminar was meticulously coordinated by the following members: Seminar Convenor: Dr. Ambuj Sharma, Principal

Faculty Coordinators:

  • Dr. Neetu Mankotia, Dean, KCL
  • Dr. Tabassum Baig, Assistant Prof., KCL

Student Coordinators:

  • Vishal Tripathi (LL.B. V Sem.)
  • Harshit Bhatti (B.A.LL.B. IX Sem.)
  • Deepak Mishra (B.A.LL.B. VII Sem.)
  • Ambuja Sharma (LL.B. III Sem.)
Valedictory Session:

The formal proceedings of the seminar concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. Neetu Mankotia, Dean Academics. In her address, she expressed sincere gratitude to the distinguished speakers for sharing their invaluable insights. She also acknowledged the unwavering support of Principal Sir, and extended appreciation to Shri Karunakar Sukul, Chief Mentor and Director of the college, along with the faculty members and student coordinators for their dedicated efforts.

The seminar concluded with a cordial lunch, offering participants a relaxed space for reflection and informal interaction.

Impact Analysis:

The National Seminar held at Kamkus College of Law made a significant academic and institutional impact. It successfully raised awareness about the environmental consequences of armed conflict, encouraging critical discourse among students, scholars, and legal professionals. The active participation of law students through paper presentations fostered research aptitude and enhanced their analytical and presentation skills. The launch of the book “Artificial Intelligence in the Indian Legal System – Transformation, Challenges and Future Prospects” further positioned the college as a thought leader in emerging legal domains. The presence of distinguished speakers and experts facilitated meaningful networking and inspired future collaborations. Overall, the seminar reinforced the college’s commitment to promoting environmental justice, legal innovation, and academic excellence.