Kargil, March 21, 2025: Govt. Degree College Drass, in collaboration with the Forest Division Kargil, successfully organized and concluded a two-day event in celebration of World Forestry Day (Theme-Forest and Food). 

The event was a significant occasion to raise awareness about the importance of forests and their role in maintaining ecological balance.

On the concluding day of the event, the program was graced by a distinguished gathering of officials, including the Chief Guest, Dr. Mohd Jaffar Akhone, the Chief Executive Councillor (CEC) of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Kargil; the Guest of Honour, Shrikant Balasaheb Suse, Deputy Commissioner of Kargil; and the Special Guest, Shree Ram R, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kargil,LAHDC Councillors-Abdul Samad and Abdul Wahid, SDM Drass, Vishal Atri, Wildlife Warden, Naib Tehsildar, Range Officers, public representatives students and faculty of GDC Drass.

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The esteemed guests were warmly welcomed by the Principal of Govt Degree College Kargil, Dr. Amjad Ali Abassi, and the District Forest Officer (DFO) Kargil, Mohd Ali, who presented them with traditional khatags, a gesture symbolizing respect and hospitality.

Following the welcome ceremony, the event commenced with a formal address by the DFO Kargil, Mohd Ali, who outlined the significance of World Forestry Day and its role in promoting sustainable forest management practices. Students from Govt Degree College Drass also actively participated by delivering insightful speeches on the occasion, emphasizing the urgent need for forest conservation.

SSP Kargil, Shree Ram R talked about importance of afforestation and stressed the importance of maintaining healthy forests and the role they play in the overall security and well-being of society, particularly in remote areas.

DC Kargil Shrikant Balasaheb Suse also spoke on the importance of such observances. He emphasized the role of local communities, including students, in driving efforts for forest conservation. He pointed out that such initiatives were key to creating a lasting impact and generating awareness at the grassroots level.

The Chief Executive Councillor (CEC) Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffar Akhone, delivered an extensive speech on the significance of observing World Forestry Day. He discussed the various government initiatives aimed at improving forest cover and highlighted the need for collaboration between government authorities, local communities, and educational institutions to safeguard the environment.

Dr. Amjad Ali Abassi, Principal of GDC Kargil, highlighted the vital role forests play in maintaining biodiversity, combating climate change, and supporting livelihoods. He expressed deep concern over the global decline in forest cover and called for collective efforts to protect and preserve these invaluable resources for future generations.

The event was skillfully moderated by students from GDC Drass, who ensured the smooth flow of the proceedings. The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the distinguished guests, participants, and organizers for making the event a memorable and impactful one.

Through this event, both the Govt Degree College Drass and Forest Division Kargil have once again demonstrated their commitment to environmental conservation and the importance of raising awareness about the preservation of forests.