JAMMU, Apr 6 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Minister Sakeena Itoo on Monday launched a mega plantation drive across the Union Territory, calling upon students to become “ambassadors of environmental protection” and lead a mass movement for a greener future.
The drive was formally kicked off from SRML Higher Secondary School in Jammu, with participation from elected representatives, senior officials, teachers and students, while institutions across J&K joined virtually.
Pitching the initiative as more than a routine programme, Itoo said it marks the beginning of a larger environmental movement. “This is not just a launch, it is a mission to protect our future and nurture life,” she said, after planting a sapling.
The Minister announced that around 2.5 lakh saplings will be planted across schools, colleges, hospitals, anganwadi centres and other public institutions throughout the Union Territory.
Raising concern over environmental degradation, she warned that climate change and rising temperatures pose a serious threat to Jammu and Kashmir’s natural heritage. “If we do not act now, we risk compromising the future of our children,” she said.
Giving the slogan of ‘One Student–One Tree’, Itoo urged every student to plant and nurture a tree as a lifelong responsibility. “You are not just participants, you are ambassadors of this movement,” she told students.
She stressed that the focus must shift from plantation to preservation, asserting that the success of the campaign will depend on survival and growth of trees rather than numbers alone.
Highlighting the broader vision of the “Green Jammu and Kashmir” initiative, the Minister said the aim is to transform educational and healthcare institutions into green, sustainable and life-supporting spaces.
On the sidelines of the event, Itoo distributed sports kits among government schools to promote physical fitness and identify young talent. She also handed over technical equipment, including desktops, to enhance digital learning and skill-based education.
In a push for girl child empowerment, bicycles were distributed among girl students to improve access to education and reduce dropout rates.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, the Minister said empowering students—especially girls—through education, sustainability and infrastructure support remains a top priority.
The plantation drive, organised by the School Education Department in coordination with allied departments, witnessed widespread participation from students, teachers and officials across Jammu and Kashmir.(NVI)
