SHIELD Trust and Kullu Science School Join Hands for Plantation Drive

SHIELD Trust (Safeguarding Himachal’s Integrity, Environment, Landmarks & Dignity) organised a plantation drive in collaboration with Kullu Science School, Bashing, under the theme “Green Today | Greener Tomorrow”, reaffirming a shared commitment to environmental conservation and nurturing responsible young citizens.

The initiative witnessed the active participation of students, faculty members and volunteers. As part of the drive, 10 cedar (coniferous) saplings were planted on the school campus. Additional saplings were also distributed to participants for plantation near their homes, encouraging students and faculty members to extend the message of environmental stewardship beyond the school premises.

The programme was supported by the Kullu Forest Department, which provided saplings as well as valuable guidance for the plantation activity. SHIELD Trust expressed its sincere gratitude to the Forest Department, Kullu, particularly the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) and Range Forest Officer (RO), for their cooperation and support in making the initiative possible.

Mrs. Indu Bhardwaj, The Principal, Kullu Science School, appreciated the initiative and said that plantation should be regarded as the beginning of a long-term responsibility. She encouraged students to regularly care for, protect and nurture the saplings planted through the programme.

Ritanjali Hastir, President, SHIELD Trust, said environmental conservation was a collective responsibility and stressed the importance of involving young people in meaningful initiatives aimed at protecting Himachal Pradesh’s natural heritage.

SHIELD Trust also expressed special appreciation to the school management for accepting and supporting the plantation proposal and providing a welcoming platform for the initiative. The Trust thanked the teachers, students and volunteers whose active participation contributed to the success of the programme.

The participants pledged to ensure the regular care and protection of the planted saplings. Dr. Yogesh Bhardwaj, Secretary, SHIELD Trust, delivered the vote of thanks and appreciated the contribution of everyone involved, emphasising that the true success of the initiative would be reflected not in the number of saplings planted, but in their survival, growth and long-term care.

The Trust said SHIELD would continue to promote community participation and youth-led initiatives for the protection of Himachal Pradesh’s environment, heritage and natural resources.