Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) today supported in Gujarat's 76th Van Mahotsav organised by Gandhinagar District Forest Office, which was followed by a significant plantation drive that saw the planting of more than 500 saplings in RRU campus. The event underscored a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and aligned with national and institutional visions for a greener future.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by several prominent personalities. Shri Sheeshpal Rajput, Hon’ble Chairman, Gujarat State Yog Board, served as the Chief Guest, emphasizing the importance of such green initiatives for public well-being and ecological balance. Guests of Honor included Shri Hasmukhbhai Patel, Member of Parliament, Ahmedabad East; Shri Balrajsinh Chauhan, MLA, Dehgam; and Shri Ashokbhai Patel, President, Dehgam Taluka Panchayat, all of whom expressed their support for environmental protection and community engagement.

Officials from different institutions also played a pivotal role in the event. Among them were Dr. A P Singh (IFS), Principal Chief Conservator of Forest & Head of the Forest Force (PCCF & HoFF), highlighting the state's forestry efforts; Shri Mehul Dave (IAS), Collector, Gandhinagar, representing local administration; and Shri B J Patel (IAS), District Development Officer, Gandhinagar District Panchayat, showcasing district-level development initiatives. From Rashtriya Raksha University, Prof. (Dr.) Kalpesh H. Vandra, Pro-VC; Dr. Dharmeshkumar D. Prajapati, I/c Registrar; Mr. Vishwa Pratap Singh, I/c Joint Registrar; and Prof. (Dr.) Priyanka Sharma, Dean, Extension & Distance Learning Directorate (EDLD), were present, reaffirming the university's dedication to social responsibility and environmental stewardship. Shri Ravirajsinh Rathod, Deputy Conservator of Forests, Gandhinagar Forest Department, also participated, further solidifying the collaborative spirit of the event.

The Hon’ble chairman of the Gujarat State Yog Board, Shri Sheeshpal Rajput, stressed the importance of everyone's role in creating a greener Gujarat at the opening remarks. "We will together initiate these initiatives of plantation and will make our Gujarat green, clean, and healthy," said Shri Rajput. He further highlighted that this ambitious dream is achievable by every citizen of Gujarat and will serve as an exemplary model for other states to emulate in their pursuit of cleaner, greener, and healthier cities in the near future.

The powerful slogan "Ek Ped Maa ke Naam 2.0" was further re-iterated by Dr. A. P. Singh (IFS), Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Head of the Forest Force (PCCF & HoFF), contributing to the environmental conversation. He declared that, as part of this program, 1600 saplings would be planted in different villages within Gandhinagar and the adjacent areas during the 76th Van Mahotsav. This project demonstrates a persistent commitment to increasing green space and fostering natural harmony across the area.

The plantation drive at RRU is a direct reflection of Prof. (Dr.) Bimal N. Patel's vision to cultivate a peaceful and pollution-free environment on the campus. As the Vice Chancellor of RRU, Prof. (Dr.) Patel believes that such an environment is essential for both students and employees—teaching and non-teaching alike—to maximize their productivity and contribute effectively in their respective areas of responsibility. This initiative under 76th Van Mahotsav is expected to significantly strengthen the Vice Chancellor's vision, as well as the broader objective of local authorities to realize the Prime Minister's dream of a green India.

This plantation drive's successful completion demonstrates RRU's commitment to creating a sustainable campus and supporting Gujarat's and India's broader environmental objectives. In addition to improving the campus's aesthetic appeal, the recently planted saplings will also help to boost biodiversity and air quality, making it a healthier and more comfortable place for everyone to work and learn.

 

During interaction with the media, RRU's pro-vice chancellor, Prof. (Dr.) Kalpesh H. Wandra, highlighted the vital advantages of planting trees. He went into detail about the various purposes of planting trees, saying that these kinds of projects are essential to reducing the difficulties brought on by environmental change. Prof. Wandra emphasized the urgent necessity for extensive plantation initiatives by pointing out the obvious damage inflicted by nature in many regions of India and around the world. In order to keep the earth green and healthy, he also exhorted everyone to engage in plantation operations in their local communities on a regular basis. This is in line with more general environmental preservation objectives supported by agencies such as the Indian Government’s Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change.

Shri Raghav Joshi, Gandhinagar's assistant forest conservator, underlined the importance of the 76th Van Mahotsav drive's mission during the closing remarks. He fervently urged all Gujarati villagers and citizens to get involved in this ongoing environmental struggle. In order to make the city greener and healthier for all of its residents, Shri Joshi's call to action seeks to promote a sense of shared responsibility. This program supports larger national initiatives to boost biodiversity and expand forest cover. For such extensive environmental efforts to be successful, residents' joint engagement is essential.

The 76th Van Mahotsav celebration at RRU serves as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to protect and nurture our environment for future generations.

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