Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, July 12 2010:
Understanding the importance of soil and its need for conservation for the survival of every organisms, every individuals should cultivate the habit of not only planting trees but also implementing them, Conservator of Forest, Northern Forest Circle L Gopal has observed.
Speaking as the functional president of the observance of 61st Vanamahotsava, 2010 in the campus of Chil Chil Mission Society, Kanglatongbi today, Gopal further explained that Vanamahotsava is being observed every year in July 1950 to encourage tree plantation.
The campaign has been started by former Union Minister of Food and Agriculture late Kanhaiyalal Maneklal Munshi.
Additional Deputy Commissioner of Kanglatongbi H Rupachandra Singh was the chief guest of the function which was also attended by Divisional Forest Officer of Northern Forest Division PV Guite and Rev K Hibou of Chil Chil Mission Society as guests of honour.
Our Moreh correspondent adds: The 61st Vanmahotsava observance was kicked off here today at with Principal Chief Conservator of Forest Seibai Singsit as chief guest.
Unlike previous years, Vanmahotsava is being observed for the first time at district level as per a policy of the Government.
Earlier, Vanmahotsava was observed at State level.
The function was graced by Principal Chief Conservator of Forest Seibai Singsit, Chief Conservator of Forest AK Joshi, Conservator of Forest Th Mahendra Pratap and ADC Moreh Lunminthang Haokip as presidium members.
On the occasion of Vanmahotsava observance, S Singsit inaugurated newly added first floor of Forest Rest House, Moreh.
First floor of the Rest House was constructed at the cost of Rs 18.6 lakhs.
In the afternoon, an awareness programme was held together with community leaders, school students and officials of Forest Department followed by a tree plantation programme.
Speaking at the occasion, S Singsit informed the students that large scale plantation of trees was the only effective means of fighting global warming.
Inviting people desirous of planting trees to come forward, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forest said that 60,000 tree saplings have been set aside for Chandel district.
The function culminated with plantation of trees by the dignitaries, Department officials and the community leaders.