Governor Acharya Devvrat today said that keeping in view the impact of global warming and degradation of environment, we need to give special attention on afforestation and preservation of the green cover. He was speaking on the occasion of 'Van Mahotsav' organized by the State Forest Department in collaboration with State Red Cross at Mashobra near Shimla.He said that plantation was not only the way out but at the same time, it was important to ensure survival of the planted saplings. He expressed satisfaction that green cover of Himachal Pradesh was increasing fast but there was need to take steps for bringing more area under green cover. He said such campaigns go a long way in moving towards achieving this goal besides motivating others for preservation of environment. He also stressed to ensure participation of school children in such campaigns so that they can realize importance of environment in their lives.
Acharya Devvrat alongwith Lady Governor Smt. Darshana Devi planted Deodar saplings on the occasion.Chairperson, H.P. Red Cross Hospital Welfare Section Smt. Pratibha Singh thanked the Governor to participate in this function and motivating other for plantation drives. She said besides other social activities the Red Cross was also organising plantation campaigns from time to time.Victory India National Organization presented the national flag to the Governor on the occasion.More than 500 saplings of Deodar and Ban were planted during this campaign.Principal Chief Conservator of Forest Shri S.K. Sharma, Chief Conservator of Forest Shri Nagesh Guleria, Secretary, Red Cross Shri P.S. Rana, Pradhan Gram Panchayat, Bhagi-Jubbar Shri Vikram Singh and other also planted saplings on the occasion.