Ganderbal, Mar 28 (KNS) ; Emphasising collective responsibility in safeguarding ecosystems, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) Vice Chancellor Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai on Saturday led a mega plantation drive at the Faculty of Forestry under the theme “For a Greener Tomorrow.”
The event, organised at the Benhama-Watlar Campus, witnessed the VC planting a coniferous tree, marking the commencement of the week-long initiative.
Senior university functionaries, including Director Research Prof Haroon R Naik, Director Extension Prof Rehana Habib, Registrar Dr Azmat Alam Khan, Dean of Forestry Prof Arshad H Mughal, and former Registrar Dr T H Masoodi, who is currently Director of the Regional Centre of AYUSH, also participated by planting saplings of Deodar and other species.
Students from adjoining schools, along with faculty and students of the Forestry Faculty, actively took part in the drive, each contributing to enhancing the campus’s green cover.
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Speaking on the occasion, Prof Ganai urged students to adopt eco-friendly lifestyles and reduce dependence on plastic, asserting that sustainability must become a way of life.
Earlier, an awareness lecture was organised highlighting the significance of forests and afforestation. Dr N A Pala welcomed the gathering and underscored the critical role of tree plantation in maintaining ecological balance.
Dean Prof A H Mughal noted the transformation of previously unproductive land into lush green forest areas on the campus and expressed pride in the institution’s sustained conservation efforts.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof Naseem Geelani, who stressed that such initiatives are vital for enhancing green cover, protecting local ecosystems, and fostering environmental responsibility among the younger generation. (KNS)