Former Chief Minister Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ says tree plantation must be followed by conservation; environmentalists call Uttarakhand the country’s environmental classroom
Dehradun: On the occasion of Harela, the traditional festival of Uttarakhand symbolizing harmony with nature, Sparsh Himalaya University, Himalayan Ayurvedic Medical College, the Forest Department, and Namami Gange jointly organized a tree plantation and environmental awareness programme. The event witnessed the participation of public representatives, academicians, environmentalists, university officials, faculty members, and a large number of students, all reaffirming their commitment to environmental conservation and the vision of a “Green and Healthy Uttarakhand.”
Welcoming the dignitaries, Vice Chairperson of Sparsh Himalaya University, Vidushi ‘Nishank’, said that Harela is not merely a traditional festival but a symbol of the state’s cultural faith in nature and its responsibility towards environmental conservation. She emphasized that the age-old tradition inspires people to remain connected to their roots and live in harmony with the natural world.
Delivering the keynote address, noted environmentalist Sachchidanand Bharti said that the identity and existence of Uttarakhand are deeply rooted in nature. He described tree plantation as the first step towards environmental conservation, while stressing that protecting planted saplings is equally important. He remarked that Uttarakhand serves as the country’s environmental classroom, making every resident responsible for preserving its rich ecological heritage. He also suggested that the Harela festival should be celebrated across India to spread the message of environmental protection.
Presiding over the programme, former Uttarakhand Chief Minister and former Union Education Minister Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ said that Uttarakhand’s cultural traditions have always promoted coexistence with nature. He stated that Harela is not only about planting trees but also about nurturing and protecting them. “A person’s life remains incomplete until they establish a meaningful connection with nature,” he said while extending his best wishes to students and faculty members for actively participating in the environmental campaign.
Dr. Arushi Nishank, National Convener of Sparsh Ganga and Treasurer of the University, urged young people to take an active role in environmental conservation. She said that tree plantation is not merely a social responsibility but a people’s movement essential for securing a sustainable future for coming generations. She added that the Sparsh Ganga campaign has consistently worked on environmental conservation, cleanliness, and public awareness across the country.
Gurjeet Singh ‘Ladi’, Pradhan of Jeevanwala Gram Panchayat, appreciated the university’s weekly cleanliness drive conducted every Sunday. He said that the initiative has inspired the local community and assured continued support from the Gram Panchayat for such public welfare and environmental programmes.
During the programme, all guests, faculty members, staff, and students took a pledge to protect the environment and transform nature conservation into a mass movement. Following the formal session, the dignitaries and university community participated in a large-scale plantation drive, planting various species of saplings across the university campus and designated locations while also pledging to ensure their long-term care and protection.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by University President Dr. Pradeep Bhardwaj, who expressed gratitude to all guests, participants, and partner organisations for making the event successful.
Among those present were Pro-Vice Chancellor Dr. Rakesh Sundriyal, Secretary Balkrishna Chamoli, Principal Dr. G.S. Indoriya, Joint Director Dr. Pradeep Kothiyal, Registrar Arvind Arora, Administrative Officer Dr. Nishant Rai Jain, faculty members, staff, local public representatives, villagers, and a large number of students.