Van Mahotsav concludes with extensive plantation drives in Kakching, Chandel
Source: The Sangai Express

Kakching/Chandel, July 07 2026: Kak/Cdl, Jul 7: The week-long 77th Van Mahotsav (Festival of Forests), observed from July 1 under the theme "Keep the Green Promise, Let Us Plant More and More Trees Together and Celebrate Van Mahotsav 2026," concluded on Tuesday with large-scale plantation drives in Kakching and Chandel districts.

In Kakching district, the programme was organised under the supervision of Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Thoubal Forest Division, Dr Leishangthem Jeeceelee, and coordinated by Kakching Range Officer L Dinesh.

As part of the week-long campaign, plantation drives were conducted across several villages under the Kakching Forest Range.

The concluding programme was held at Waikhong High School, where students, representatives of civil society organisations, personnel of Assam Rifles from Waikhong Post and Forest Department officials planted saplings under the theme "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" .

Saplings were also distributed to participants.

Speaking on the occasion, Range Forest Officer L Dinesh said that around 4,550 saplings of various species, including Leihao, Karpur, Haosuk, Yongchak, Theibong, Chingthrao, Heikru, Tera, Jam, U-Thambal, Bokul, Dalchini, Chorphon, Mayokpha, U-Ningthou, Heinou, Areca Palm and Curry Leaf, were planted at Thambal Chingya, Keirak Kangjeibung, Sora, Lamjao, Laipham Loknung, Tangjeng, Santhel, Langathel, Langmeidong Playground, Waikhong Playground and Pallel during the observance.

He added that around 10,200 saplings were also distributed to the public as part of the campaign.

Meanwhile, Chandel district also concluded the 77th Van Mahotsav with plantation drives across 10 villages.

Speaking at the concluding programme, DFO Chandel Dr N Munal Meitei said that a total of 1.15 lakh saplings had been planted across 32 locations during the week-long observance, surpassing the district's target of planting 1.10 lakh saplings.

He noted that Chandel Block recorded the highest number of plantations among the district's four blocks and appreciated the support extended by local communities, village authorities, schools, teachers, civil society organisations, self-help groups, Van Dhan Vikas Kendra members and District Level Officers.

Urging people to ensure the survival of the planted saplings through proper care, Dr Munal announced that the village or locality recording the highest survival rate of saplings by next year would be awarded a cash prize of Rs 10,000 by the DFO, Chandel.

He also expressed hope that sustained plantation efforts would help make Chandel one of the most aesthetically green districts in the State.

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