One student, one tree: PAU VC’s Green Initiative takes root

Ludhiana, July 8, 2024: Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, has embarked on a massive month-long plantation drive as a part of its ‘Clean and Green PAU Campus Drive,’ initiated during the university’s Diamond Jubilee year. This initiative aligns with Van Mahotsav, the annual tree-planting festival celebrated in the first week of July, which promotes environmental awareness and the concept of ‘reduce, reuse, and recycle.’

Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor of PAU, articulated the ambitious goals of the plantation drive. He envisioned a future where lush forests flourish, providing alternative fuels and boosting food production. He also emphasized the creation of shelter belts to enhance agricultural productivity. The first week of July is ideal for planting in India due to the monsoon season and PAU targets planting 15,000 trees, he added.

Central to this drive are the first-year students, each entrusted with planting and nurturing a sapling throughout their academic journey. This ‘one student, one tree’ model will extend to PAU’s Krishi Vigyan Kendras, Research Stations, and Seed Farms. Additionally, PAU plans to establish a Miyawaki Forest on a one-acre area, funded by Vardhman Special Steel Pvt Limited under their CSR initiative.

Dr. Gosal emphasized the multifaceted importance of trees in combating climate change, improving air quality, conserving water, maintaining soil health, enhancing urban environments, and contributing to economic and social value. He highlighted that trees play a vital role in stabilizing the planet’s climate, supporting biodiversity, purifying the air, and enriching urban life.

Dr. R.I.S. Gill, PAU’s Estate Officer, unveiled the strategic locations for the plantation drive. To name a few, Bougainvillea will grace the entrance near Gate Number 3, while Neeli Gulmohar and elegant Palms will line ATARI Road. Kachnar trees will enhance the surroundings near Parker House, with Lagerstroemia adorning CIPHET Road. Along the boundaries, Sterculia will stand tall as a natural fortress. Launched on July 3, this ambitious initiative will see 150-200 saplings planted daily, continuing until the end of the month, transforming the campus into a verdant sanctuary.

The Director of Extension Education, Dr. M.S. Bhullar, reiterated the benefits of combining a festival with tangible policy objectives. He explained how such initiatives not only celebrate nature but also drive real progress in environmental conservation, sustainable development, and ecological balance. By weaving tradition with action, these efforts mitigate climate change impacts, prevent soil erosion, foster biodiversity, and enhance human health, creating a harmonious blend of celebration and stewardship for our planet.

Dr. Parminder Singh, Head of the Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, outlined the diverse array of plants to be grown. From vibrant shrubs and towering trees to traditional Punjabi flora, the aim is to conserve precious germplasm and counter the looming threats of climate change. The initiative will focus on creating lush new plant avenues across the campus, with evergreen plants offering a refreshing coolness in summer and deciduous varieties ensuring warm sunshine during the winter months. This thoughtful selection will transform the campus into a year-round haven of natural beauty and resilience.

Key personnel, including Dr. R.I.S. Gill, Dr. M.S. Bhullar, Dr. Parminder Singh, Dr. Navtej Singh (DES), and Dr. Ranjit Singh (Landscaping Officer), have prepared an extensive plan and commenced the planting at the campus, contributing to a greener and healthier environment.