Srinagar: In a vibrant display of community spirit and environmental commitment, Block Development Officer (BDO) Khansahib led a spirited plantation drive today at the serene Amrit Sarovar Sochalpathri.
The event, organized as part of the nationwide Sewa Parv 2025 campaign, saw enthusiastic participation from field staff, local officials, and prominent citizens from neighboring panchayats, underscoring the growing momentum of grassroots efforts to foster sustainability.
The Sewa Parv 2025 initiative, running from September 17 to October 2, emphasizes selfless service through activities like afforestation, cleanliness drives, and social welfare programs, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” – planting a tree in honor of one’s mother.
Today’s drive at Amrit Sarovar, a vital water body nestled amid lush Pir Panchal foothills, focused on planting native species to enhance biodiversity, combat soil erosion, and preserve the ecological balance of the region.
Over 200 saplings, including resilient varieties like deodar, were planted along the sarovar’s banks, transforming the site into a greener haven. Participants, including representatives from adjacent panchayats such as Raiyar Ich and Mujpathri, rolled up their sleeves under the morning sun, digging pits, watering young plants, and sharing stories of local conservation.
Field staff from the Block Development Office coordinated the logistics, ensuring tools, saplings, and safety measures were in place. “It’s heartening to see our community come together for Mother Earth,” said one local panchayat member, echoing the sentiment of unity that defined the morning.
At the helm was BDO Khansahib, whose proactive leadership has previously driven sanitation initiatives in the block, such as the demolition of outdated dry latrines earlier this year.
The gathering after the planting session, BDO Khansahib delivered a poignant message on the imperative of collective action: “In the spirit of Sewa Parv, let us remember that every tree we plant today is a promise to our future generations – a cooler planet, cleaner air, and a thriving ecosystem. As we honor our mothers by nurturing the earth, I urge every citizen to join this green revolution. One sapling at a time, we can turn Khansahib into a model of sustainable living.
Let this not be a one-day affair, but the start of lifelong stewardship.” The event concluded with a brief awareness session on water conservation, highlighting the sarovar’s role in local agriculture and biodiversity. Officials distributed eco-friendly kits to participants, reinforcing the campaign’s blend of action and education.
This plantation drive marks Day 4 of Sewa Parv activities in the block, following similar efforts in cleanliness and youth engagement, and sets the stage for upcoming events like community health camps.