Odisha student Dhrti joins UN Youth Group on Nuclear Disarmament
Bhubaneswar, Aug 13 (UNI) Dhriti Moksha Panigrahi, a 13-year-old climate and peace advocate and Grade VIII student of SAI International School, has been appointed to the prestigious United Nations Youth Group on Nuclear Disarmament (UNYGND).
The UNYGND has been formed under the Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO).
Dhriti, a trailblazer in youth-led climate action and nuclear disarmament advocacy, has been actively contributing to environmental causes since the age of six.
She is the only student from Odisha to be selected for this global youth group. She earned this recognition after applying for the programme in September 2024, demonstrating her strong commitment to peace, sustainability, and nuclear disarmament.
She is also a core member of the Earth Again Movement and The Child Movement, championing climate justice, disaster risk reduction, and the protection of children’s rights.
Over the years, Dhriti has conducted numerous environmental awareness drives and clean-up campaigns in Bhubaneswar, Rourkela, Paralakhemundi, and several western Odisha cities,
inspiring hundreds of young people to join the movement for a cleaner and greener planet.
Chairperson of SAI International Education Group, Dr. Silpi Sahoo, expressed immense pride in Dhriti’s achievement.
“Dhriti is not just a student of SAI International; she is a symbol of what empowered education can achieve.
Her appointment to the UN Youth Group on Nuclear Disarmament is a beacon of hope and proof that young voices, especially from rural India, can shape global dialogues,” Dr. Sahoo said.
Speaking on her appointment, Dhriti said: “I’m deeply honoured to be part of this global initiative.
I hope to amplify the voices of children and youth from rural and vulnerable regions, advocating for a world that is peaceful, just, and safe for all.”
She added that, if given a chance, she would initiate a cleanliness drive in and around schools across Odisha, encouraging students to take greater responsibility for their surroundings and promote a clean, green learning environment.
