SHIMLA, Himachal Pradesh — In a robust effort to combat climate change and promote ecological consciousness, APG Shimla University, in partnership with the Shimla Forest Department, has launched a comprehensive tree plantation drive on its campus. The initiative gathered a diverse group of participants, including government dignitaries, forest officials, university leaders, and students, all united by a shared commitment to environmental sustainability.
The event was graced by the presence of Kewal Singh Pathania, the Deputy Chief Whip of the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, who attended as the Chief Guest, alongside Anup Kumar Rattan, the Advocate General of Himachal Pradesh, as the Guest of Honour.
In his address, Kewal Singh Pathania highlighted the profound connection between patriotism and environmental care. “Planting a tree is not just an act of conservation, but a duty to the nation,” he stated, encouraging students to actively participate in building a greener and safer India.
Anup Kumar Rattan shed light on the urgent environmental challenges facing the state, specifically mentioning issues like western disturbances, intense rainfall, and the resulting landslides. He stressed that such plantation drives are crucial for mitigating these risks and building a more resilient ecosystem for the future. He also underscored the need for sustained effort, reminding the audience that the responsibility extends beyond just planting. “We must also take care of the trees we plant to ensure they grow and truly benefit the environment,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of long-term commitment.
The drive was spearheaded by Dr. Pyar Singh Thakur, the NSS Coordinator, along with his team of dedicated student volunteers. A variety of native saplings were planted across the university campus and surrounding areas, contributing to both ecological restoration and long-term environmental protection.
Prominent university officials present at the event included Dr. Ramesh Chauhan (Pro-Chancellor), Er. Suman Vikrant (Advisor), Dr. R. L. Sharma (Registrar), Dr. Anand Mohan (Dean of Academics), Dr. Neelam Sharma (Dean of Students’ Welfare), Dr. Ashwani Sharma (Dean, Faculty and Head of Schools), and Dr. Ankit Thakur (Dean of Engineering).
From the Shimla Forest Department, Aniket Wanve (Divisional Forest Officer), Ajit Kumar (Range Officer), and Divender Chauhan (Assistant Conservator of Forests) actively guided the plantation efforts, providing vital support for the university’s green mission.
The event concluded with a formal Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. R. L. Sharma, the university’s Registrar, who expressed his gratitude to all the dignitaries, officials, and volunteers. He urged everyone to transform environmental awareness into sustained action, thereby contributing to a greener future.
