Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 21 July 2025
In a vibrant celebration of the 76th Van Mahotsav, the Department of Environment and Forests, A&N Administration, organized a ceremonial function at Andaman College (ANCOL), Sri Vijaya Puram recently to highlight the crucial role of forests in sustaining ecological balance.
The event was held in the presence of Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, IAS, Chief Secretary of the A&N Administration, who graced the occasion as the chief guest. Also in attendance were senior officials including Mr. Ashok Kumar Biswal, IFS, PCCF (WL & CWLW), Mr. Sanjay Kumar Sinha, IFS, PCCF (ANI), Mr. Neeraj Bharti, IAS, Secretary (Home/Vigilance), Dr. S. Jayakumar, Principal, ANCOL, Mr. Arjun Sharma, IAS, Deputy Commissioner (South Andaman), along with other senior officers of the Administration and Forest Department.
In his address, the Chief Secretary emphasized the importance of tree plantation and collective responsibility in preserving the Islands’ green cover. He appreciated the Forest Department’s consistent efforts in promoting environmental awareness through community engagement and educational initiatives.
The event featured the symbolic plantation of saplings, enlightening speeches by senior forest officials, and cultural performances by college students — all centered on forest conservation and sustainability. The involvement of the academic community added depth to the celebration, inspiring students to take active roles in environmental stewardship.
Earlier, Dr. S. Jayakumar, Principal, ANCOL, extended a warm welcome to the dignitaries and participants. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. S. Dinesh Kannan, IFS, CCF (R&WP), who acknowledged the contributions of the guests, faculty members, and students while reaffirming the Forest Department’s commitment to protecting natural ecosystems.
To further encourage environmental participation, the Forest Department also distributed saplings to students and attendees, promoting the campaign “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0” and urging everyone to plant trees in their localities.
