JULY 29: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurated Van Mahotsav 2025 at the Abhinav Theatre in Jammu, placing strong emphasis on the growing urgency of sustainable development and environmental stewardship. The festival, celebrated annually to promote tree plantation, took on a renewed sense of purpose as the CM addressed climate change concerns and the importance of preserving ecological balance.
During his keynote speech, the Chief Minister underlined the responsibility shared by both the government and citizens to protect the environment. “Development must be judicious. For every tree that is removed, a hundred must be planted,” he declared, drawing applause from the gathered audience of students, environmentalists, and government officials.
He further encouraged people to “find joy in planting trees” and treat environmental protection not as a formality, but as a personal mission. Omar Abdullah stressed the need to transform Van Mahotsav from an annual event into a mass movement, urging everyone to contribute actively to combating climate change and safeguarding natural resources for future generations.
The event also featured cultural performances and tree-planting demonstrations by local schoolchildren and volunteers. The CM commended their enthusiasm and called upon youth to lead the way in building a greener, cleaner Jammu and Kashmir.
Highlighting the government’s commitment, he spoke about policies aimed at increasing green cover, promoting afforestation, and incorporating sustainability into development planning. He urged departments, educational institutions, and civil society to work in synergy to create lasting environmental impact.
Concluding his speech, the Chief Minister reiterated that the environment must be treated as a shared legacy. “Let us plant trees not just for today, but for the well-being of the generations yet to come,” he said.
The event was widely covered by media and supported by various departments and environmental groups, further amplifying its message across the Union Territory.
