Shimla: Governor Kavinder Gupta today said that tree plantation was not merely an event but a commitment to secure the future of humanity, with every sapling planted today becoming a valuable legacy for generations to come.
Addressing the inaugural function of the 11th annual plantation campaign organised by Sabhya Re-Foresters at Samlech village in Solan district, the Governor said trees were the foundation of life, providing clean air, conserving water, supporting biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance.
“Planting a tree is only the beginning. Its real purpose is fulfilled when we nurture and protect it until it becomes a healthy tree,” he said, urging people, particularly the youth, to make environmental protection a part of their lifestyle.
The Governor said that Indian civilization has always regarded nature as sacred and that environmental conservation was deeply rooted in the country’s cultural and spiritual traditions. He said that Himachal Pradesh, with its forests, Himalayan mountains, rivers and rich biodiversity, plays a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region. “Protecting the Himalayan ecosystem is not only the responsibility of Himachal Pradesh but of the entire nation,” he remarked.
Expressing concern over the impact of climate change, including erratic rainfall, cloudbursts, landslides, shrinking glaciers and rising temperatures, Kavinder Gupta called for collective efforts to protect the environment and minimise ecological damage.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, the Governor said that it has transformed environmental protection into a people’s movement. He called upon citizens to contribute actively to initiatives relating to afforestation, water conservation, renewable energy, cleanliness, biodiversity protection and reduction of single-use plastic.
He urged schools, colleges, panchayats, urban local bodies, industries and voluntary organisations to make environmental protection an integral part of their social responsibility.
The Governor also honoured students who secured positions in the painting and quiz competitions organised as part of the campaign. Special Guest Shyam Jaju appreciated the organisation’s sustained efforts towards environmental conservation over the past 11 years, particularly its commitment to ensuring the survival and proper care of the saplings planted.
School students also presented a short play and cultural programme highlighting the importance of environmental protection. Deputy Commissioner Solan Manmohan Sharma, Superintendent of Police S.D. Verma, Zila Parishad Chairperson Sheela Kumari, Mayor MC Solan Sushma Sharma, councillors, Sabhya Re-Foresters President Ajay, General Secretary Ripu Daman and other prominent people were also present on the occasion.
