Jammu: “The Earth does not belong to us; we belong to the Earth.”
In a laudable stride towards fostering ecological equilibrium and sustainable living, Chenab Brigade along with Deputy Director Forest Protection Force, J-2, Sidhra, Jammu organized a successful Plantation Drive at Army Public School Damana on 17 July 2025. Under the theme “Ek Ped Maa ke Naam”, the initiative was envisioned to heighten students’ awareness about the critical importance of nurturing nature and taking concrete steps towards a greener, healthier planet. The drive commenced under the sagacious leadership of the Brig Kumar Anand, Chairman APS Damana who warmly welcomed Sh. Anwar Aftab Shah, Deputy Director, Forest Protection Force, J-2, Sidhra, Jammu and Smt. Nasreen Shah. The special guests present on the occasion were Mrs Surbhi Anand, FWO Chenab Brigade, Mrs Pushpinder Kaur, Principal APS Damana, Col Bhavy Kulshreshatha, Mrs Shalini Mathur and Akshita Anand.
The dignitaries along with enthusiastic students of classes I to VI -Syed Anwar Shah (IVA), Mihika Singh (IV B), Lakshaya (V B), Gurvansh Kumar (V C), Lavanaya (VI C), Atharva Sharma (VI D) and Sushma Parihar, PRT planted various saplings of indigenous species such as Peepal, Rudraksh, Amla, Arjun, Bel thereby contributing to the augmentation of the green cover. The saplings were planted along with the engraved name plates of the guests and students with a thought that when the students grow, so will the trees. This verdant initiative not only embellished the school premises with lush foliage but also imbued the students with an enduring sense of accountability towards Mother Nature.
In his eloquent address, Chairman APS Damana insisted that the plantation drive is not just about planting trees; it’s about nurturing a culture of environmental responsibility among students. We want students to understand that every sapling planted is a commitment to the future. Sh. Anwar Aftab Shah, Deputy Director, Forest Protection Force signified the indispensable role of trees in mitigating climate change and preserving ecological equilibrium. Pushpinder Kaur, Principal APS Damana holds that this plantation stands with its focus on sustaining the plants; to foster a culture of responsibility towards nature among students. She ensured that these saplings will surely be taken care of thereafter. The event culminated with an expression of gratitude extended to all participants and a collective resolve to perpetuate such eco-conscious undertakings in the times to come.
