News

Theme: "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam"

The National Service Scheme (NSS), GD Goenka University, successfully organized Van Mahotsav–2026 on the theme "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" to promote environmental conservation, ecological awareness, and sustainable living among students and the university community. The programme was organized in the University Auditorium and witnessed enthusiastic participation from NSS volunteers, students, faculty members, university officials, and distinguished dignitaries.

The programme commenced with the NSS Song, creating an atmosphere of unity, patriotism, and commitment towards community service and environmental stewardship. The event aimed to inspire students and stakeholders to actively contribute towards increasing green cover and preserving the environment through plantation activities.

The Vice Chancellor of GD Goenka University warmly welcomed the dignitaries, faculty members, students, and NSS volunteers. In his inaugural address, he emphasized the significance of Van Mahotsav as a national movement for environmental protection and highlighted the responsibility of educational institutions in fostering environmental consciousness among young citizens. He encouraged everyone to adopt sustainable practices and participate actively in plantation drives to create a greener and healthier future.

As part of the state-level observance of Van Mahotsav, the gathering witnessed a live telecast of the address by Hon'ble Shri Nayab Singh Saini, Chief Minister of Haryana, who elaborated on the vision and objectives of the "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" campaign. His inspiring message encouraged citizens, particularly the youth, to plant and nurture trees in honour of their mothers, thereby strengthening the emotional and environmental connection between people and nature.

The programme was further enriched by the Special Address of Sh. Uttam Kumar, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Gurugram, who highlighted the importance of community participation in afforestation and emphasized the role of educational institutions in supporting the Government's environmental initiatives. He motivated students to become ambassadors of environmental conservation and contribute towards building a greener Haryana.

The audience also benefited from the inspiring addresses delivered by several esteemed dignitaries, including:

• Hon'ble Shri Kartikeya Sharma, Member of Parliament, Haryana
• Hon'ble Sh. Tejpal Tanwar Ji, MLA, Sohna
• Smt. Bimla Chaudhary Ji, MLA, Pataudi
• Sh. Mukesh Sharma Ji, MLA, Gurugram
• Smt. Usha Priyadarshini Ji, Chairperson, Haryana State Commission for Women
• Sh. Ram Avtar Garg Ji, Chairman, Haryana Dairy Development Corporation
• Smt. Raj Rani Malhotra Ji, Mayor, Gurugram

The programme also featured the Chief Guest Address by Hon'ble Shri Krishan Lal Panwar, Cabinet Minister of Panchayats & Development and Mines & Geology, Government of Haryana, who emphasized that environmental conservation is a collective responsibility and that tree plantation plays a vital role in mitigating climate change, conserving natural resources, and ensuring sustainable development. He applauded educational institutions for creating awareness among young generations and urged every individual to plant and nurture at least one tree in their lifetime.

Following the inaugural session, a plantation drive was organized across the university campus. Approximately 150 saplings of ornamental, shade, and native tree species were planted by the Vice Chancellor, NSS volunteers, students, faculty members, university officials, and invited dignitaries. The plantation activity symbolized the commitment of the university community towards protecting nature and strengthening environmental sustainability under the campaign "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam."

The event was successfully conducted under the guidance and coordination of Dr. Kunal Adhikary, NSS Programme Coordinator, with valuable support from Dakshita Ma'am, Proctor, GD Goenka University, whose continuous encouragement and coordination ensured the smooth execution of the programme.

The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Major Kartikeya Sharma, Chief Administrative Officer, GD Goenka University, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Guest, distinguished dignitaries, university leadership, faculty members, NSS volunteers, students, and organizing team for their active participation and support in making the event a grand success.

The programme concluded with the National Anthem, followed by a group photograph of all participants, commemorating the successful celebration of Van Mahotsav–2026.

Overall, Van Mahotsav–2026 was organized with great enthusiasm and commitment, effectively spreading awareness about environmental conservation, sustainable development, and the importance of tree plantation. The event inspired students to become responsible citizens and environmental stewards, reinforcing the message that collective efforts today will ensure a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future for generations to come. The campaign "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" beautifully conveyed the emotional and ecological significance of planting and nurturing trees, making the programme both meaningful and impactful.