FIRDOUS AHMAD
SRINAGAR, Mar 21: A mega plantation drive was inaugurated today at Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) Medical College, Bemina, to commemorate World Plantation Day. The event was held in collaboration with the Urban Forestry Division Srinagar and aimed at enhancing greenery across the campus.

The plantation drive was formally kickstarted by Director SKIMS and EOSG, Prof. Ashraf A. Ganie, and Principal Medical College, Prof. Fazlul Qadir Parray, along with Chief Conservator of Forests (Kashmir), Mr. Irfan Rasool Wani and Conservator Srinagar Circle, Mr. Tawheed Deva. The event was organized by the Hospital Engineering, Landscape & Estates Department of SKIMS MC in partnership with the Urban Forestry Division.

During the drive, over 500 saplings of deodar, ornamental, and decorative plants were planted in different areas of the campus, adding to the greenery of the institution.
Director SKIMS, Prof. Ganie, expressed gratitude to the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and appreciated the efforts of the Landscape Department for organizing the event. He stressed the importance of preserving the green wealth, highlighting that plants and trees play a pivotal role in maintaining ecological balance. “We need to maintain the college campus and hospital surroundings as green zones to ensure a healthier environment,” he remarked.

Principal Prof. Parray also commended the initiative and thanked the Urban Forestry Division Srinagar and the Nodal Officer of Landscape for their coordination and support. He emphasized that such efforts will go a long way in promoting environmental sustainability on the campus.
The event witnessed participation from senior faculty members, Heads of Departments, Medical Superintendent, Deputy Medical Superintendent, Assistant Nursing Superintendent, supervisors, senior staff sisters, Mr. Ayaz (Nodal Officer), and other staff from administration, security, sanitation, and medical students.
The plantation drive concluded with a pledge to continue efforts toward environmental conservation and ensure the upkeep of the newly planted saplings.
