SRINAGAR: As part of the Union Territory–wide Mega Plantation Drive launched under the leadership of the Minister for Higher Education Sakeena Itoo, Amar Singh College, Srinagar, actively participated in the initiative on 6th April 2026.
The programme commenced at 12:00 Noon at the historic Heritage Building of the college. The inaugural session began with a formal gathering of faculty members, students, and volunteers. Prof Aijaz Ahmad Hakak, Worthy Principal of Amar Singh College, delivered a thought- provoking address, highlighting the ecological, social, and ethical significance of plantation drives in the present era of environmental crisis and climate change. He stressed the urgent need for collective responsibility and institutional participation in preserving ecological balance.
Prof Nusrat Syed, Convenor of the Landscape Committee, also addressed the gathering and motivated students to become active custodians of the environment. She emphasized the importance of sustained care and monitoring of the planted saplings to ensure long-term environmental benefits.
Following the inaugural session, the plantation drive was formally launched. Students, NSS volunteers, and faculty members spread across different departments of the college, where plantation activities were carried out under the supervision and guidance of the respective Heads of Departments. The NSS Programme Officers of Units I, II, and III, along with members of the ECO Club and Shehjar Club, played a pivotal role in coordinating and executing the plantation efforts efficiently.
The programme was further enriched by the esteemed presence of Shri Ram Niwas (IAS), Worthy Commissioner/Secretary, Higher Education Department, who actively participated in the plantation drive. He was joined by Mr. Shafqat Iqbal, Special Secretary, HED, Prof Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Worthy Director Colleges, J&K, and Mr. Naseer Ahmad Wani (JKAS), Director School Education, Kashmir who also planted saplings as a symbolic gesture to promote environmental consciousness and sustainability.
The dignitaries lauded the efforts of Amar Singh College under the able leadership of Prof Aijaz Ahmad Hakak, appreciating the institution’s commitment to aligning with the broader UT-level vision spearheaded by the Hon’ble Minister for Higher Education for a greener and more sustainable future.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from more than 300 faculty members, non- teaching staff, and student volunteers. Over 400 saplings and trees were planted across various locations within the college campus, significantly contributing to the enhancement of green cover and ecological sustainability.
The programme concluded on a note of collective resolve, with participants pledging to nurture and protect the planted saplings and to continue engaging in such environmentally responsible initiatives in the future.