A week-long Mega Plantation Drive under the Bhumi Suposhan Abhiyan 2026 was successfully inaugurated today at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kupwara, with great enthusiasm and active participation from officials, students, and scientists.
The programme was graced by the Chief Education Officer (CEO), Kupwara, as the Chief Guest, while the Chief Agriculture Officer (CAO), Kupwara, attended as the Guest of Honour. The Deputies Chief Education Officer, Principal of Government Boys Higher Secondary School (GHSS), Kupwara, and teachers from the Education Department were also present on the occasion. The event was presided over by the Head, KVK Kupwara, Dr. G.M. Bhat.
Head KVK Kupwara warmly welcomed the dignitaries and participants. In his address, he strongly emphasized the importance of Natural Farming and highlighted the need to reduce dependency on chemical pesticides and fertilizers. He advocated for organic and eco-friendly agricultural practices to restore soil health and ensure sustainable productivity. He further stressed that plantation drives like this play a vital role in improving soil health, enhancing green cover, conserving biodiversity, and mitigating climate change.
Dr. Shahid Hakeem highlighted that proper soil conservation measures—such as maintaining soil structure, preventing erosion, and enhancing organic matter—are essential for the healthy growth and survival of newly planted saplings. He emphasized that without healthy soil, plantation efforts cannot achieve long-term success.
Dr. Firdose Ahmad Raina, while speaking on pesticides and entomology, explained that protecting young plants from pests and diseases is crucial during the early stages of plantation. He stressed the importance of integrated pest management (IPM) to maintain plant health and ecological balance.
Dr. Faisal Nabi emphasized the importance of horticultural practices in plantation, including the selection of suitable species, proper planting techniques, spacing, and aftercare. He noted that scientific horticulture practices are key to improving survival rates, growth, and long-term productivity of planted trees.
During the programme, the Chief Guest appreciated the initiative and emphasized the vital role of students and youth in environmental conservation. The Guest of Honour highlighted the importance of soil health, water conservation, and sustainable farming practices. The Chief Guest further remarked that this was the first time an educational institution had been actively involved in such an initiative and appreciated the Head of KVK for this commendable effort.
Around 100 students from Government Boys Higher Secondary School Kupwara actively participated in the plantation drive. Scientists from KVK Kupwara guided the participants and shared practical knowledge on plantation techniques, maintenance, and environmental significance.
As part of the drive, both deciduous and evergreen species—including deodar, kail, cupressus, chinar, mulberry, and elm—were planted along the boundaries and in designated blocks at KVK Kupwara to promote biodiversity and improve the ecological environment of the campus.
The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks presented by Mr. Wajid Meerak, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, participants, and organizers. The event ended with a pledge by all participants to support natural farming practices and contribute towards environmental sustainability under the Bhumi Suposhan Abhiyan 2026.
