Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu, Dr. B. N. Tripathi inaugurated the newly established Arboretum at the experimental farm, Department of Silviculture & Agroforestry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-J). The Arboretum was established in collaboration with Society for Promotion of Inclusive and Sustainable Development (SAMIKSHA), a local NGO headed by Sh. Ajay Khajuria. While
speaking of the occasion, the Chief Guest, Dr. B. N. Tripathi, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu said that Arboretum inspires poeple to appreciate, learn about, and protect trees. He expressed his desire to add maximum tree species to the Arboretum, properly labelled with their common and scientific names and plant family. He emphasized the need of conserving the tree species especially in the light of eroding biodiversity and their dwindling wild population.
On behalf of SAMEKSHA, Sh. C. M. Sharma, Sh Subash Anthal, Sh. Balwant Singh, Dr. Ramakant Sharma, Sh Vinod Kumar Sh Kamal Mansotra and Sh Om Parkas Bhuria participated in the programme. Sh. C.M. Sharma informed the gathering that the establishment of this arboretum is a part of Nationwide ‘Ek Ped Desh Ke Naam’ campaign and highlighted the activities of NGO ‘Samiksha’. Inauguration was followed by tree plantation ceremony.
Trees like Chinar, Kadamb, Shampa, Shikakai, Bahera and Summer Apple were planted by the dignitaries including Sh BC Sharma, Dean, FoA, Dr. Jyoti Kachroo, Dr. K.K. Sood and students from the Division of Agroforestry. The event was coordinated by Dr Sandeep Sehgal, Professor and Head, Division of Silviculture and Agroforestry, SKUAST-Jammu.
