Srinagar: A mega plantation drive was organised at the Mountain Research Centre for Sheep and Goat (MRCS&G), Shuhama under the Green Initiative of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), with an aim to promote environmental sustainability and strengthen tree fodder resources for livestock.
Prof. Haroon Rashid Naik, Director Research, SKUAST-K, attended the programme as the Chief Guest. The event was also graced by Prof. Mohammad Altaf Bhat (Director Education), Prof. Azmat Alam Khan (Registrar), Prof. Sajad Ahmad Gangoo (Dean Students’ Welfare) and Prof. Riaz Ahmad Shah (Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences) as Guests of Honour.
During the drive, the dignitaries, along with Heads of various divisions of the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, scientists of the Centre and faculty members, planted saplings of Kikar, Mulberry, Apricot, Willow, Ailanthus and Poplar across different units of the Centre, including the Sub-Alpine Pasture, Rabbitry and Goatry plots.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Parvaiz Ahmad Reshi, Senior Scientist and Head, MRCS&G, said that the Centre has set a target of planting around 25,000 saplings during the current spring season. He noted that the initiative aims to enhance green cover while also developing sustainable tree fodder resources for sheep and goats.
The visiting dignitaries appreciated the efforts of the Centre in transforming barren areas into green and productive landscapes.
Chief Guest Prof. Naik commended the leadership and dedicated efforts of Dr. Reshi in spearheading the greening and development of the Centre, expressing hope that such initiatives will further strengthen environmental sustainability and livestock-based research activities at MRCS&G.
