Jammu, April 6: In an effort to strengthen environmental awareness among young people, Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education Sakina Itoo on Sunday formally launched a Union Territory–wide plantation drive from SRML Higher Secondary School. The campaign is designed to encourage students to play an active role in protecting nature and promoting greener surroundings in their communities.
The launch event drew participation from elected representatives, senior officials, teachers, and students. Legislators Qaysar Jamshaid Lone, Hasnain Masoodi, and Showkat Hussain Ganie were among those present, alongside officers from the education, health, and social welfare departments. Officials and students from other districts also joined the programme virtually, reflecting broad participation across Jammu and Kashmir.
While addressing attendees, the minister stressed that meaningful environmental protection begins at the school level, where awareness and responsible habits can be nurtured early. She said the plantation campaign should be viewed as a sustained mission rather than a one-time activity, urging institutions to remain committed to preserving the region’s natural resources.
Authorities indicated that approximately 2.5 lakh saplings will be planted across educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and welfare centres throughout the Union Territory. The minister noted that although Jammu and Kashmir is widely admired for its natural beauty, environmental pressures such as climate change and ecological degradation are becoming increasingly visible, making conservation efforts more urgent.
Describing students as key partners in this initiative, the minister called upon them to adopt the message of “One Student–One Tree” and take responsibility for nurturing the plants they grow. She also appealed to educators to lead by example and ensure that schools actively promote environmental stewardship.
During the programme, the minister distributed sports kits to various government schools to support physical development and encourage participation in extracurricular activities. Several institutions were also provided with technical equipment, including computers, to enhance digital learning and modernize classroom facilities.
In addition, bicycles were handed over to girl students from different schools as part of ongoing efforts to support girls’ education and improve accessibility to schools. Officials said the measure is expected to help reduce absenteeism and empower students to continue their studies with greater confidence.
The plantation drive has been organized through coordinated efforts of multiple government departments, with strong involvement from educational institutions and local communities. Officials expressed hope that the initiative will lead to long-term environmental benefits and inspire greater public participation in conservation activities.
