The Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Rashtrapati Niwas, Shimla, organised a tree plantation drive on World Environment Day, highlighting the importance of collective responsibility in environmental conservation. The event was held in line with this year’s global theme, “Inspired by Nature, for Climate, for our Future,” focusing on biodiversity conservation and climate action.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Head of Forest Force), Himachal Pradesh, Shri Sanjay Sood, IFS, attended as the chief guest. He said environmental challenges such as climate change and resource depletion can only be addressed through strong public participation, not policy measures alone. He stressed that forests and trees are vital for ecological balance, water security and overall human well-being, urging especially the youth and academic institutions to adopt long-term environmental responsibility.
Director of IIAS, Professor Himanshu Kumar Chaturvedi, said the relationship between nature and human civilisation is deeply interconnected and called environmental protection a moral and social duty, not just an administrative task.
On the occasion, oak and deodar saplings were planted in the institute campus by dignitaries and participants, including faculty members, fellows and staff. The chief guest was also felicitated with a Himachali cap, shawl and a maple sapling. The programme saw active participation from National Fellows, Tagore Fellows, IUC Associates, officers and employees of the institute.
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