Shailgooth (Almora) – With the objective of promoting environmental conservation and enhancing green cover, a large-scale plantation and sapling distribution programme was organised in Shailgooth Gram Sabha on the occasion of the Harela festival. The event, held under the directions of the Chief Development Officer, Almora, saw active participation from Gram Pradhan Chandrika Tiwari, Gram Panchayat Member and journalist Kapil Malhotra, and Gram Panchayat Member Bhavana Malhotra, who jointly distributed saplings to the villagers.
According to earlier orders issued by Chief Development Officer Ramji Sharan Sharma, mass plantation programmes are being conducted across the district with widespread public participation on the first day of the Harela festival. In Shailgooth, departmental staff were present to convey the message of environmental conservation, encouraging villagers to plant trees and care for them.
Addressing the gathering, Gram Pradhan Chandrika Tiwari said that Harela is not just a cultural tradition but also a commitment to keeping our earth green and ensuring a clean environment for future generations. She urged every family to plant at least two saplings and care for them regularly.
Gram Panchayat Member and journalist Kapil Malhotra stated that a special plan has been made for plantation along riverbanks, streams, school premises, public places, and roadsides within the Gram Sabha area. He emphasised that the campaign involves active participation from public representatives, schoolchildren, NGOs, and local residents, aiming to transform Shailgooth into a “Green Village” in the coming years.
Gram Panchayat Member Bhavana Malhotra highlighted that plantation is not a one-day activity but a long-term responsibility, urging women to take a leading role in the effort.
Departmental staff provided detailed guidance on planting techniques, selecting suitable locations, irrigation arrangements, and protecting saplings. They noted that the first year is the most crucial for plant survival, calling for consistent community involvement.
At the end of the event, all attendees took a collective pledge to not only plant trees but also ensure their care so that the true purpose of the Harela festival is achieved.
The programme was attended by a large number of villagers, youth, women, students, and local representatives including Sanjay Kumar, Vikas Bisht, and Bhaskar Bisht (Rozgar Sevak). The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and positive energy during the sapling distribution. Villagers expressed that such campaigns strengthen both environmental protection and social unity.
The ongoing large-scale plantation drive under the Harela festival will not only enhance the natural beauty of Shailgooth Gram Sabha but also contribute to water conservation, soil preservation, and climate balance.
