Gangtok, Feb. 4: Forty children are taking part in an environmental education programme being held at Ipecac garden in Saramasa.

Making best use of their two-month winter vacations, these students are learning the basics of ecology and conservation.

A number of children who had taken part in a similar camp held last year, have come back for this one. Organisers claimed that the success of last year’s camp had generated a positive response, leading to a rush of participants this year.

Aimed at imparting lessons on nature conservation and edutainment, the weeklong camp will also familiarise the children about their immediate surroundings which include sharing of knowledge about the flora and fauna of the state.

Organised by Sikkim Tours & Travels, a Gangtok- based travel firm, the camp is being held for the second consecutive year.

Camp director Lukendra Rasaily said Camp Sikkim was designed to encourage friendly competition among children through activities and awareness campaigns. “Training and awareness on environment, conservation, gardening and basics of camping will be imparted to the kids while ensuring that they also have lots of fun,” he said.

Besides various competitions like acting, dancing and singing the camp will try to infuse camaraderie among the participants. Sports and games, quizzing, biking, trekking, photography, gardening, drawing, painting, collage making and other creative arts and hobbies are some of the activities lined up for the weeklong camp.

The organisers have roped in seven counsellers to impart lessons to the campers. Most of them are environmentalists and members of NGOs. Apart from providing tips on nature and culture they would also share their childhood experiences.

One of the counsellors, Ganden Lachungpa, said the level of enthusiasm was very high and the children were eager to learn as much as possible.