As part of the 76th Van Mahotsav celebrations, the Forest Department’s Diglipur Division organized a large-scale tree plantation drive at the Fish Landing Centre in Durgapur. The event saw the active participation of local residents, fishermen communities, officials, and members of Panchayati Raj Institutions in a collective push to promote environmental awareness and ecological restoration across the region.
The occasion was graced by Assistant Commissioner of Diglipur, Kamleshwar Rao, who served as the chief guest. Also present were officers of the Environment and Forest Department, including Divisional Forest Officer Dr. S.H.K. Murti and Assistant Conservator of Forests. The event opened with an address highlighting the importance of preserving the islands’ unique flora and fauna.
The plantation drive involved the sowing of various indigenous and fast-growing tree species selected for their adaptability to the island’s coastal climate. Saplings were planted by representatives of local governance, forest department staff, and members of the fishermen community, marking a symbolic commitment to a greener future. Officials noted that such species would help enhance local biodiversity, stabilize soil, and improve the micro-climate of the area.
The chief guest praised the sustained efforts of the Environment & Forest Department in maintaining the natural greenery of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. He commended the community for turning out in significant numbers, indicating a growing sense of environmental responsibility among residents. The plantation drive at Durgapur is one of many across the islands being held in conjunction with Van Mahotsav, which seeks to promote tree planting as a critical tool against climate change and environmental degradation.
During the event, the message from the Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands was read aloud to the gathering. The message emphasized the urgency of restoring ecological balance in the fragile island ecosystem and urged citizens to take proactive steps to conserve forests. It underlined that the Van Mahotsav should not be seen as a one-day activity but as a long-term commitment toward sustainability.
Department officials elaborated on the importance of trees in preventing soil erosion, supporting wildlife, and mitigating the effects of extreme weather events. In the context of coastal areas like Diglipur, tree cover also plays a crucial role in shielding communities from storms and preserving marine biodiversity.
The Divisional Forest Officer spoke about the challenges of conservation in island territories, where growing tourism and urban expansion often conflict with ecological priorities. He called for stronger community involvement in forest protection, particularly in areas adjacent to human habitation. The presence and participation of local fishermen, who depend heavily on natural resources for their livelihood, were hailed as a positive development in community-driven conservation.
The Forest Department plans to monitor the growth and survival rate of the newly planted saplings over the coming months. Follow-up drives and awareness campaigns will also be organized in collaboration with schools, panchayats, and NGOs to ensure continuity and long-term success.
By aligning Van Mahotsav with grassroots action, officials hope to instill a deeper respect for nature and create a model of sustainable development unique to the islands. With the Diglipur plantation drive, the administration has once again underlined the importance of blending traditional knowledge, modern science, and civic participation in the service of the environment.
