MLA Dr Bharat Bhushan, DC Rajesh Sharma lead ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ plantation drive
Blazing Tales News Service
KATHUA, JULY 30: Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), Kathua, Dr Bharat Bhushan, and Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma on Thursday led a mega plantation drive under the nationwide “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign as part of the ongoing Van Mahotsav 2026 celebrations.
Organised by the Social Forestry Department, Kathua, the plantation drive was conducted along the stretch from Kathua Waterfront to Kalibari with the objective of enhancing the district’s green cover and promoting environmental conservation.
The programme was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Surinder Mohan Sharma, Additional District Development Commissioner Mahima Madan, Divisional Forest Officer (Social Forestry) Hitakshi Sharma, senior officers of the Social Forestry Department, district officers, representatives of various government departments, volunteers and members of civil society.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Bharat Bhushan said the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign inspires every citizen to plant a tree in honour of their mother while contributing to a greener and more sustainable future. He urged people, particularly the youth, to actively participate in afforestation drives and ensure the survival and proper care of the planted saplings.
Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma appreciated the efforts of the Social Forestry Department and emphasised that increasing green cover through community participation is essential for maintaining ecological balance, mitigating climate change and preserving biodiversity. He called upon all stakeholders to transform tree plantation into a mass movement.
During the drive, officers of the district administration, prominent citizens, representatives of civil society and media persons planted indigenous and ornamental saplings along the Waterfront–Kalibari stretch and pledged to protect and nurture them.
Earlier, DFO Social Forestry Hitakshi Sharma welcomed the dignitaries and highlighted the objectives of Van Mahotsav 2026 and the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign. She also sensitised participants about the importance of nurturing the planted saplings to ensure their healthy growth and long-term sustainability.
