NIT Srinagar organizes plantation drive ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam ‘

Srinagar, Sep 23: As part of the ongoing Swachhata Pakhwada campaign, the NSS unit of the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar on Wednesday organized a special plantation drive titled ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ on the campus.

“Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” is an effort that shows our respect and dedication towards our motherland and nature. The aim of this campaign is to plant a tree in the name of a mother and create a lasting memory, which will not only protect the environment but also contribute to building a greener and more prosperous future.

In his message, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath said this plantation drive is not just an event, but a step towards fostering a greener future. Initiatives like these remind us of our responsibilities to protect the environment and contribute to combating global challenges.

“NIT Srinagar will continue to support such activities that align with our vision of creating a sustainable and clean environment for future generations,” he added.

Speaking on the occasion, Registrar NIT Srinagar, Prof. Atikur Rehman said ‘Ek Pad Ma Ka Naam’ is a step in making our campus greener and raise awareness about the critical role trees play in combating climate change and pollution.

“I appreciate the NSS unit and all participants for their efforts in making this event a success. Together, we can continue to make meaningful contributions toward a sustainable and cleaner environment,” he said.

Prof. Rehman said such initiatives not only promote environmental stewardship but also encourage the involvement of our students and staff in community welfare.

NSS Coordinator, NIT Srinagar Dr. Jitendra Gurjar said that during the drive more than 100 saplings were planted across multiple locations on campus as part of the initiative.

“The drive was aimed to highlight the importance of planting trees in addressing critical environmental issues such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change,” he said.

Dr. Gurjar emphasized that participants were encouraged to take responsibility for nurturing the trees, ensuring their survival and growth, thus reinforcing the vital role trees play in maintaining ecological balance.

“The event also included a felicitation ceremony for sanitation workers, recognizing their indispensable contributions,” he said.

Earlier, NIT Srinagar hosted a five-day activity series from September 13 to September 17, 2024, to promote sanitation, environmental awareness, and community welfare.

Each day focused on a different theme, engaging volunteers and the local community in efforts to create a cleaner and healthier environment while also honoring the efforts of sanitation workers.

The NSS week kicked off with a pledge ceremony, where participants took an oath to maintain cleanliness in their surroundings and encourage others to do the same.

On the second day, a rally was held to raise awareness about cleanliness and hygiene, with NSS volunteers marching from the campus through nearby residential areas and markets, carrying banners and placards promoting hygienic practices.

The third day featured a large-scale cleanliness drive, during which volunteers cleaned roads, bus stops, parks, and public spaces, collecting and segregating waste into recyclable and non-recyclable materials.

In recognition of the tireless efforts of sanitation workers, NSS volunteers organized a special felicitation ceremony, where the workers were honored with appreciation certificates and small tokens of respect.

The event fostered a deeper connection between the community and the sanitation workers, raising awareness of the challenges they face in keeping the environment clean.