PESHAWAR: A book on environmental protection awareness for children was launched at an event held here the other day to mark the World Environment Day.

The main auditorium of the Directorate of Youth Affairs in Hayatabad became the vibrant focal point of the thought-provoking literary gathering.

Jointly hosted by the Culture, Literature, Arts & Development Organization (Clado) and the Directorate of Youth Affairs, the primary objective of the ceremony was to instil deep ecological consciousness in the younger generation and propagate a vital message of conservation through creative children’s literature.

The book titled ‘Fitrat Kay Muhafiz’ (Guardians of Nature) features an anthology of 20 inspiring stories penned by as many eminent writers from across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It marks the third collaborative literary project successfully published under the banner of Adabiyat-e-Atfal KP, representing a substantial, historic contribution to local eco-literature specifically tailored for young minds.

Speakers at the launch highlighted that the distinctiveness of the book lies entirely in its child-centric approach, where complex ecological ideas have been crafted in a simple yet highly engaging manner to match the cognitive psychology of young readers.

The authors have deftly addressed critical ecological challenges, including the long-term preservation of natural landscapes, the hazardous impacts of plastic bags, the protection of wildlife and urban birds, the adverse health impacts of winter smog, and the vital need for afforestation at a mass level. The anthology features valuable contributions from prominent regional writers, including Dr Raj Mohammad Afridi, Aurangzeb Qasmi, Shah Mahmood Mohmand, Shaheen Amin, Kulsoom Zeb, Fawad Anwar, and Nazia Niazi, among others.

Addressing the gathering, District Youth Officer Mohammad Usman reiterated the directorate’s unwavering commitment to supporting constructive youth activities across the province.

Dr Raj Afridi, the chief patron of the society, shared the rigorous creative effort that went into compiling the book, stressing that children’s literature remains an incredibly potent tool for raising genuine environmental awareness.

Nazia Niazi, the society’s central president, extended her profound gratitude to the contributing writers and vowed to sustain this journey of producing constructive literature.

Abdul Rahman Afridi, chief executive officer of Clado, emphasised the strategic integration of modern green technologies and public-private partnerships in addressing climate change.

Published in Dawn, June 8th, 2026