Budgam: In a step towards promoting environmental conservation, the Social Forestry Department, Range Budgam, organized a grand plantation drive at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) School Budgam today, commemorating the International Day of Forests. The initiative was held under the direction of Dr. Mumtaz Majeed, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Srinagar, and supervised by Bilal Ahmed Matoo, Range Forest Officer, Social Forestry Range Budgam.
The event brought together students, educators, and prominent dignitaries from various sectors. Private Schools Association J&K (PSAJK) President G.N. Var graced the occasion as the chief guest, while D.K. Singh, Principal of JNV Budgam, was the guest of honor. Among other attendees were Jammu & Kashmir Trade Union Council President Abdul Majeed Parray, Block Officer Mohd Lateef Shagoo, and several officers from the Social Forestry Department.
A total of 500 saplings were planted within the school premises, promoting ecological balance and raising awareness about the critical role of forests in sustaining life on Earth. This year’s International Day of Forests theme, ‘Forests and Food,’ underscores the essential relationship between forests and global food security.
Addressing the gathering, PSAJK President G.N. Var emphasized the importance of engaging students in environmental initiatives. “Students represent the future of our planet. Instilling environmental awareness and the value of trees at a young age ensures a sustainable future,” he said. Var further stressed the role of forests in maintaining ecological balance, warning that neglecting environmental preservation poses a threat to human survival. “Today’s program has rightly involved students, making environmental education a part of project-based learning,” he added.
Expressing his gratitude, Var applauded the efforts of the Social Forestry Department and JNV Budgam for organizing the event. “This program on World Forest Day reflects a visionary approach to environmental education,” he noted.
Principal of JNV Budgam, D.K. Singh, welcomed the initiative, stating, “This plantation drive encourages environmental responsibility among students. It not only helps expand the green cover but also fosters biodiversity conservation and pollution control. We hope for more such collaborations that inspire young minds.”
J&K Trade Union Council President Abdul Majeed Parray highlighted the vital role of afforestation in combating climate change. “Trees are fundamental to maintaining ecological stability. They filter air, absorb carbon dioxide, prevent soil erosion, and support biodiversity. Every tree planted is an investment in a healthier future,” he remarked.
Students actively participated in the plantation drive and shared their thoughts on environmental protection. “Planting trees is about securing the future of our planet. Forests provide oxygen, reduce air pollution, and support wildlife,” said one student. Another added, “Deforestation leads to climate change, rising temperatures, and natural disasters like floods and landslides. It’s our duty to protect our environment.”
Environmental experts present at the event highlighted the far-reaching benefits of afforestation, including improved air quality, climate regulation, biodiversity conservation, and water preservation.
The program concluded with all participants taking a collective pledge to protect and nurture the environment. The event reaffirmed the commitment of the Social Forestry Department and local stakeholders to sustainable development and environmental conservation in Jammu and Kashmir.
