Solan: Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry (UHF), Nauni, paid heartfelt tribute to Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar on his birth anniversary today. Dr. Parmar was the first Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh and the architect of modern Himachal. Marking the occasion, the university wrapped up its month-long Van Mahotsav plantation campaign.
The event began with Vice Chancellor Prof. Rajeshwar Singh Chandel and university faculty offering floral tributes. They honored Dr. Parmar’s pivotal role in securing full statehood for Himachal Pradesh and advancing its farming sector.
Director of Research, Dr. Sanjeev Chauhan, welcomed attendees. He shared that 4,880 saplings had already been planted during the month. To further honor Dr. Parmar’s memory, another 891 saplings were added today. This took the total plantation count to 5,771 across the university and its research stations.
Prof. Chandel highlighted Dr. Parmar’s deep foresight. “He understood that hill farming couldn’t thrive on agriculture alone. By blending horticulture and forestry with traditional farming, he ensured sustainable development,” he said.
He emphasized the need for the university’s scientists and staff to keep this vision alive. Development, he stressed, must always respect nature. Prof. Chandel also pointed to the university’s continuous green efforts. “We’ve transformed dry patches into green zones by planting native species, fruit trees, and ornamentals,” he said. These efforts boost biodiversity, support honeybees, and offer extra income through fruit sales.
Students and staff also joined a plantation drive at the university’s model farm. Alongside, they took part in removing Parthenium weeds as part of eco-restoration work. In all, the month-long drive saw 5,771 saplings of 30 different species planted. This effort reinforced UHF Nauni’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable living.
