Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Governor Shri Kavinder Gupta today led a plantation drive under the nationwide ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign at Shimla University (APG), urging the youth to actively contribute towards environmental conservation and the creation of a drug-free society.
The Governor was accorded a traditional welcome by the university administration, faculty members and students upon his arrival. Senior officials from the Forest Department, Police Department, local Gram Panchayat and other dignitaries were also present. The programme began with Saraswati Vandana, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and the rendition of Vande Mataram in the university auditorium.
The Governor was felicitated with a traditional Himachali cap, shawl and memento by Pro-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Ramesh Chauhan, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Rajendra Singh Chauhan, Registrar Prof. (Dr.) R. L. Sharma, Dean Faculty Prof. (Dr.) Ashwani Sharma, Advisor Er. Suman Vikrant and Dean Academics Prof. (Dr.) Anand Mohan Sharma. Dean Students’ Welfare Prof. (Dr.) Neelam Sharma presented a bouquet to the Chief Guest.
Welcoming the Governor, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Rajendra Singh Chauhan said the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 5, 2024, is a unique initiative that connects environmental conservation with respect for motherhood. He highlighted the university’s emphasis on academic excellence, quality education, placements and environmental awareness.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Kavinder Gupta said trees are the foundation of human life and not merely ornamental plants. He stressed that planting saplings alone is not enough unless they are protected and nurtured into fully grown trees. “The success of any plantation campaign lies in the survival of the saplings. Every citizen should plant at least one tree and ensure its proper care,” he said.
The Governor urged students to balance academic pursuits with social responsibility and environmental stewardship. He also expressed concern over the growing menace of drug abuse and called upon the youth to play an active role in building a drug-free India.
Highlighting the ecological importance of tree plantation, he said increasing green cover would help reduce pollution, improve air quality and safeguard the environment for future generations. He added that environmental protection is a shared responsibility and requires collective public participation. Students presented cultural performances highlighting environmental conservation, climate change and the need to protect forests. Traditional Dogri dance and Himachali Nati performances added a cultural flavour to the event.
The Governor also felicitated winners of the poster-making competition organised on the theme of environmental conservation by presenting them with certificates and mementoes. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Registrar Prof. (Dr.) R. L. Sharma, who acknowledged the contribution of the Governor, university authorities, faculty members, the Forest Department, Police Administration, NSS volunteers, media representatives and university staff in making the plantation drive a success.
Among those present were Secretary to the Governor Sandeep Bhardwaj, OSD to the Governor Sahil Verma, senior officials from the Forest Department and Police Administration, representatives of the local Gram Panchayat, faculty members, students and invited guests.
