Ganderbal, Mar 28: The Faculty of Forestry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Benhama-Watlar Campus, today organized a Mega Plantation Drive at FoF under week long programme under the inspiring theme “For a Greener Tomorrow.”

The programme was attended by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, who marked the occasion by planting a coniferous tree on the campus. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from senior university functionaries including Director Research, Prof. Haroon R. Naik; Director Extension, Prof. Rehana Habib; Registrar, Dr. Azmat Alam Khan; Dean, Faculty of Forestry, Prof. Arshad H. Mughal; and Dr. T.H. Masoodi, former Registrar and presently Director, Regional Centre of AYUSH, all of whom contributed by planting saplings of Deodar and other species.
Students from adjoining schools, along with faculty members and students of the Faculty of Forestry, actively participated in the plantation drive, each planting a sapling and contributing towards enhancing the green cover of the campus.
Following the plantation activity, an awareness lecture was organized highlighting the importance of forests and tree plantation. Dr. N.A. Pala welcomed the dignitaries and participants and emphasized the critical role of afforestation in maintaining ecological balance. Prof. A.H. Mughal, Dean, Faculty of Forestry, highlighted the transformation of previously unproductive land into lush green forest areas, expressing pride in the institution’s sustained conservation efforts.
Addressing the gathering, Vice Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai stressed the collective responsibility of safeguarding ecosystems through active participation in plantation initiatives. He urged students to adopt eco-friendly lifestyles and reduce dependence on plastic, emphasizing sustainability as a way of life.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Naseem Geelani, who reiterated that such initiatives are vital for enhancing green cover, protecting local ecosystems, and fostering environmental responsibility among the younger generation.
The event successfully reinforced the importance of community participation in environmental conservation and marked a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable future.