Governor Kavinder Gupta has urged the youth to take the lead in environmental conservation and the movement to create a drug-free society, emphasizing that collective efforts today will help build a healthier and greener future.
Addressing a plantation drive under the campaign ‘Har Ped, Himachal Ka Abhiman – Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ at APG Shimla University, organised in collaboration with Nishkam Srijan Foundation, the Governor said environmental protection should become a people’s movement. He stressed that planting saplings is only the beginning, and their proper care and growth is essential to ensure the real success of such initiatives.
The Governor said educational institutions should serve as centres of sustainable development by encouraging students to adopt environmental responsibility and social values. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, he said the initiative beautifully connects nature conservation with India’s cultural traditions, where trees symbolize life, gratitude and responsibility towards future generations.
Highlighting the importance of sustainable living under the Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) initiative, Shri Gupta encouraged people to adopt eco-friendly practices such as water conservation, reducing plastic use, saving energy and increasing plantation activities.
Calling youth the nation’s greatest strength, the Governor encouraged students to plant and nurture at least one sapling during their academic journey, so that it becomes a lasting symbol of their contribution to society and nature.
Addressing the issue of substance abuse, he appealed to young people to support the ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva–Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan’ and spread awareness about the harmful effects of drugs. He said a developed India can only be achieved through healthy, empowered and responsible youth.
The Governor also planted a sapling, interacted with students and volunteers, and distributed prizes to winners of a poster-making competition. He inaugurated the Nav Grah Vatika on the university campus and distributed saplings among NSS volunteers.
Earlier, Vice Chancellor Prof. Rajinder Singh Chauhan briefed the Governor about the university’s activities and the plantation campaign. A cultural programme was also presented by students on the occasion.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
