Pattan, Dec 13 (KNS): NSS Units and Department of Environmental Science of GDC Pattan in collaboration with Special Forest Division, Tangmarg Forest Department), U T of Jammu and Kashmir organised a special Winter Plantation Drive in the college campus.

In his inaugural address, the Principal of the College, Prof. Dr. Ghulam Jeelani Quereshi stressed on the importance of plantation drive for controlling Environmental Degradation and also highlighted the importance of medicinal plants with a need to focus on its potential uses for the welfare of people.

On the occasion, the Range Officer, Special Forest Division, Tangmarg, Mr. Shafeeq Ahmad also highlighted the importance of such drives for tackling Environmental Pollution and spoke at length about Forest Department's Special programme “Gaon Gaon Hariyaali”.

Around 550 saplings were planted by the students and NSS Volunteers of the College and they pledged to protect them till they grow big.

A special pre- drive address was delivered by Dr. Asiya Nazir (Head, Department of Environmental Science) regarding the Environmental and religious importance of plantation for the motivation of Students.

The programme was anchored by Prof. Safeer Mukhtar (NSS Program Officer, Unit II) and it was technically supported by Sajad Naqash.

The programme was conducted under the aegis of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsava. (KNS)