As part of the 76th Van Mahotsav celebrations, a tree plantation programme was held on Sunday at the Industrial Estate located at Salemthar in Chandel district. The event was jointly organised by the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Chandel, and the General Manager of the District Industries Centre (DIC), Chandel.
In the programme, around 150 tree saplings were planted across a stretch of 4 to 6 feet in the Industrial Estate premises. The ceremonial event was led by Dr. N. Munal Meitei, Divisional Forest Officer, Chandel, and Th. Bijoy Singh, General Manager, DIC/Chandel.
Various saplings including Ficus (Leihao), Bokul, Ashoka, Heinou, Heigu, and Jamun were planted as part of the day’s activities. Dr. Munal stated that the plantation drive was carried out under the EK PAAD MAA KA NAAM 2.0 initiative. He remarked that trees are “sacrificing mothers” of all living beings and planting them is an expression of gratitude toward nature. Trees do not ask for anything in return but continue to provide life support to humans and all forms of life, he said.
Dr. Munal expressed concern that the number of trees in Chandel has decreased over the years, urging the public to take serious steps to revive the green cover of the district. He encouraged everyone to come forward and plant trees not just symbolically, but with long-term care and commitment.
He further appealed to all government departments and the general public to continue the plantation drive throughout the Industrial Estate area in the coming days.