Social Forestry Department organizes grand plantation drive to celebrate International Day of Forests at JNV School Budgam

• PSAJK President G.N. Var emphasizes student engagement in environmental initiatives
• Experts warn against deforestation, highlighting its link to climate change and natural disasters
• Stakeholders, students take a collective pledge to protect and preserve nature

BUDGAM: The Social Forestry Department, Range Budgam, celebrated the International Day of Forests with great enthusiasm by organizing a grand plantation drive at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) School Budgam. The event was conducted under the directions of Dr. Mumtaz Majeed, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Srinagar and supervised by Bilal Ahmed Matoo, Range Forest Officer, Social Forestry Range Budgam.

The plantation drive witnessed the participation of several dignitaries, including Private Schools Association J&K (PSAJK) President G.N. Var was as the chief guest and D.K. Singh, Principal of JNV Budgam, as the guest of honor. Other notable attendees included Jammu & Kashmir Trade Union Council President Abdul Majeed Parray, Block Officer of the Social Forestry Department Mohd Lateef Shagoo, Zahoor Ahmad and several other prominent personalities. Students also actively participated in the event.

A total of 500 saplings were planted within the school premises to promote ecological balance and raise awareness about the importance of forests.  Speaking at the event, PSAJK President G.N. Var, emphasized the need to involve students in environmental initiatives. He stated, "A significant portion of our population consists of students in schools and colleges they are the future of our planet. If children develop awareness about the environment and understand the importance of trees, we secure our future.

The celebration of the International Day of Forests serves as a reminder that forests exist in various forms, each playing a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. If we fail to protect our environment and recognize the significance of trees, we ultimately put human lives at risk. It is commendable that today’s program has engaged students, as environmental education should be an integral part of project-based learning."

He further stressed that human survival depends entirely on a healthy environment, making its protection and preservation imperative. Programs like these play a vital role in educating both children and the public about the importance of planting trees and conserving nature. He also expressed gratitude, saying, "I am deeply thankful to the Social Forestry Department and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) Budgam for their visionary efforts in organizing this meaningful program on World Forest Day."

D.K. Singh, Principal of JNV Budgam, expressed his gratitude to the Social Forestry Department for selecting their institution for the plantation drive. "I sincerely appreciate this initiative, which encourages environmental responsibility among students. Hosting such programs cultivates awareness, enhances green cover and contributes to pollution control and biodiversity conservation. We look forward to more collaborations that inspire young minds to protect nature," he stated.

Jammu & Kashmir Trade Union Council President Abdul Majeed Parray underlined the crucial role of afforestation in combating climate change. "Trees are not just a source of oxygen but also play a fundamental role in maintaining ecological stability. They act as natural air filters, reduce carbon footprints  and help prevent soil erosion. The importance of afforestation cannot be overstated, as it directly contributes to tackling climate change, improving air quality and preserving biodiversity. Every tree we plant today is an investment in a healthier future for coming generations," he remarked.

The participating students also shared their insights on the importance of tree plantation and the dangers of deforestation. "Planting trees is not just about adding greenery; it is about securing our planet’s future. Trees provide us with oxygen, reduce air pollution and support biodiversity. Without forests, we face severe environmental challenges, including climate change, rising temperatures and habitat destruction for countless species," said one of the students.

Another student highlighted the negative impacts of deforestation, saying, "When we cut down trees without replacing them, we disrupt ecosystems, contribute to global warming and increase the risk of natural disasters like floods and landslides. It is our responsibility to protect and nurture our environment." Experts at the event emphasized the numerous benefits of afforestation, including Improved Air Quality: Trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, making the air cleaner, Climate Regulation: Forests play a key role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, Biodiversity Conservation: Trees provide habitat and food for wildlife, Water Conservation: Forests help maintain groundwater levels and reduce soil erosion.

The event concluded with a collective pledge to protect and nurture the environment, reinforcing the commitment of the Social Forestry Department and local stakeholders toward sustainable development.