Srinagar, Jun 05 (KNO): Stressing that environmental conservation requires sustained commitment beyond symbolic campaigns, Additional Director General (ADG) CRPF J&K Zone, Rajesh Kumar on Friday said the true success of plantation drives lies not merely in planting saplings but in ensuring their survival and healthy growth.
During a large-scale plantation drive organised by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) across Central Kashmir to mark World Environment Day, officials told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that CRPF units deployed in Srinagar, Budgam and Ganderbal districts, along with the Group Centre and Sector Headquarters at Nishat, participated in the campaign aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and strengthening ecological balance.
Officials said nearly 3,000 saplings of various indigenous and environment-friendly species were planted during the programme to enhance green cover, restore ecological health and promote biodiversity across the region.
They said similar plantation drives were organised by CRPF formations across the country, highlighting the importance of sustainable environmental practices for holistic development and the vision of “Viksit Bharat.”
The main plantation drive was conducted at Group Centre CRPF Srinagar under the guidance of Rajesh Kumar, IPS, Additional Director General, CRPF J&K Zone, in the presence of Pawan Kumar Sharma, Inspector General, CRPF Srinagar Sector, besides senior officers, subordinate officers and jawans of the force.
Addressing the gathering, the dignitaries highlighted growing environmental challenges and stressed the need for collective efforts towards afforestation and environmental conservation.
Kumar said the effectiveness of plantation campaigns should be measured by the survival and maintenance of saplings rather than by numbers alone. He stressed the importance of regular watering, protection and monitoring of newly planted saplings to achieve long-term environmental conservation goals.
"CRPF would continue such plantation drives in future as part of its sustained commitment towards environmental protection and sustainable development," he said.
Officials said CRPF officers, subordinate officers and jawans deployed across Central Kashmir enthusiastically participated in the programme, reflecting the force’s commitment not only towards ensuring internal security but also towards protecting the environment and contributing positively to society.
They added that adequate arrangements have been made for the upkeep and monitoring of the saplings to ensure their healthy growth and survival—(KNO)