Shathla/Kotgarh(Shimla): In an inspiring display of unity and environmental consciousness, the younger generation of Shathla Village in Kotgarh, feted as Himachal Pradesh’s first apple kingdom, have joined hands to raise the green cover and fight out the menace of drug abuse.
Led by field botanist and renowned naturalist of national repute, Dr. Vaneet Jishtu, locals aim to create a sustainable future by planting trees and inspiring the younger generation.
Dr. Jishtu, known for his work at the Western Himalayan Arboretum in Shimla, where over 115 native tree species now thrive, believes that planting trees is a simple yet noble act to combat deforestation and climate change.
With the reality of global warming and climate change, trees play a crucial role in nurturing the planet and ensuring the prosperity of our communities.
In addition to environmental concerns, rural Himachal Pradesh faces the emerging threat of drug use among the youth, particularly in the apple belt region.
Taking inspiration from neighbouring Punjab, where youth have initiated campaigns against drugs, road safety, and tree plantations, the youth of Shathla Village decided to engage and inspire their peers while protecting and improving the local environment.
To kick-start their efforts, the youth approached Dr. Vaneet Jishtu, who was delighted by their initiative and promised them his full support and guidance.
The tree plantation drive commenced on July 7, 2023, coinciding with the Van Mahotsva Week, a nationwide initiative in India to protect forests for future generations.
Under the leadership of Ankush Jaret, the youth volunteers planted the 'Mohru' oak (Quercus floribunda), a native tree species in the region.
They plan to expand their efforts by planting kelo (Cedrus deodara), khanor (Aesculus indica), mandru (Acer caesium), baras (Rhododendron arboreum), and several wild fruit trees in the coming months.
Reflecting on the significance of tree planting, volunteer Rapinder Jaret, also the Vice-President of Mangsu Gram Panchayat, remarked, "Tree-planting is one of the simplest contributions an individual can offer to address various environmental issues."
Dr. Jishtu, addressing the village volunteers, emphasized the importance of their role in combating climate change and environmental degradation.
He urged them to embrace active leadership and initiate a grand movement to save the environment.
The plantation works in Shathla Village garnered widespread acclaim after pictures were shared on social media.
The villagers and people across Kotgarh praised the youth group for their noble efforts.
ī
Encouraged by the positive response, the enthusiastic youth vowed to continue their mission of planting trees throughout the monsoon season.
The volunteers, including Ankush Jaret, Vikram Jishtu, Vaneet Sirkeck, Anup Jaret, Aman Jaret, Vinay Jishtu, Abhinav Jaret, Pratul Jaret, Bhupesh Makhaik, Suman Jaret, Avinash Jaret, Vinod Jaret, and Rapinder Jaret, expressed their commitment to nurture and protect the planted trees.
This inspiring initiative in Shathla Village not only promises a greener future but also serves as a beacon of hope for other communities and youth in the apple belt and state as whole.
With their active involvement in tree plantation drives and engagement in social issues, these young individuals are fulfilling the objectives of Van Mahotsva while setting an example for the rest of the country.
The Divisional Forest Officer of Kotgarh, Yashu Deep, is already formulating plans to involve local youths in awareness programs addressing wildlife issues, such as rising man-animal conflicts, particularly concerning bears in the region.
As we witness the power of unity and environmental stewardship in Shathla Village, it becomes evident that the future lies in the hands of our youth.
