‘Instill sense of environmental responsibility among school students’

Srinagar, Mar 9: Under the theme “Green Khimber,” a large-scale plantation drive was conducted at Bilaliya Educational Institute (BEI), Khimber.

The event was inaugurated by Dr G N Itoo, Director School Education Kashmir, and witnessed enthusiastic participation from hundreds of school children, environmentalists, Civil society members, volunteers, and members of the travel trade industry.

Various species of trees, including Chinar, conifers, fir, deodar, and fruit-bearing trees, were planted as part of this green initiative. The event was co-organized by NLCO and BEI, in collaboration with TAFI, TAAK, Kashmir Concern,  Responsible Tourism Society of India and NTTA.

Speaking at the occasion, Dr G N Itoo emphasised the importance of environmental conservation and announced the introduction of a new initiative, “One Admission, One Tree,” to instil a sense of environmental responsibility among school students.

Manzoor Wangnoo, Chairman BEI & NLCO, expressed gratitude to all the dignitaries, participants, and stakeholders for their support. He highlighted that, in line with BEI’s tradition of observing the first day of school as “Environment Day,” the institute will now dedicate two days annually to environmental conservation efforts. He also expressed his gratitude to Forest Dept. for providing plants for this initiative.

The event was attended by several notable personalities from the travel industry, environmental sector, and civil society, including Dr. Mushtaq Margoob, Farooq Kuthoo, Shameem Shah, Dr. Tauseef Bhat, Peerzada Faiyaz, and Er. Abdul Rashid. Media persons and environmental activists also participated, further amplifying the message of sustainable environmental practices.

‘The plantation drive marks another step toward creating a greener, more sustainable Kashmir, reinforcing the collective responsibility to protect and restore our natural heritage,” Wangnoo added.