Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, in association with the Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, reaffirmed its leadership in environmental stewardship by hosting a tree plantation drive to commemorate the 115th Foundation Day of the Central Bank of India on December 15, 2025. Organised under the theme “Add Plant, Save Planet,”and held on the lawns of the College of Community Science, the initiative reflected PAU’s commitment to sustainability through meaningful institutional collaboration.
The programme was graced by Dr Nirmal Jaura, Director Students’ Welfare; Dr Kiran Bains, Dean, College of Community Science; Dr R.I.S. Gill, Estate Officer and Dean, College of Horticulture and Forestry; Dr T.S. Dhillon, Additional Director, Extension Education and Additional Director Communication; Dr G.P.S. Dhillon, Head, Department of Agroforestry and Natural Farming; Dr H.S. Kingra, President, PAUTA, and Floriculture expert and PAU Nursery Incharge, Dr Ranjit Singh. Faculty and students of the College of Community Science were also present at the event.
Representing the Central Bank of India, Mr Ashok Sharma, Deputy General Manager and Regional Head, Ludhiana, led the plantation drive. He was accompanied by Mr Mithlesh Kumar, Chief Manager; Mr Ashwani Kumar, Manager; Mr Jasraman Singh Bedi, Manager; Shri Sewa Prasad, Shri Ravi Sharma along with other officials and staff of the Central Bank of India.
Emphasizing the University’s holistic approach, Dr Nirmal Jaura said, “Environmental responsibility is an integral component of PAU’s broader vision of education, outreach and social accountability. Initiatives like these strengthen the culture of sustainability on campus.”
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Kiran Bains stated, “PAU has consistently been at the forefront of promoting sustainability-driven initiatives. Tree plantation activities reinforce our responsibility toward environmental conservation and responsible institutional practices.”
Highlighting the ecological significance, Dr R.I.S. Gill remarked, “Afforestation initiatives such as these play a critical role in strengthening biodiversity and mitigating the adverse effects of climate change, aligning closely with PAU’s mandate of sustainable natural resource management.”
Appreciating the collaborative effort, Dr T.S. Dhillon stated, “PAU continues to serve as a platform for socially relevant initiatives that connect institutions with the community. Such environment-friendly activities reinforce the message of collective responsibility toward sustainable development.”
Speaking on behalf of the Central Bank of India, Mr Ashok Sharma, DGM and Regional Head, Ludhiana, observed, “Commemorating our Foundation Day with a tree plantation drive reflects the Central Bank of India’s commitment to environmental conservation. Collaborating with Punjab Agricultural University allows us to contribute meaningfully toward building a greener and more sustainable future.”
The event concluded with a reaffirmation of PAU’s commitment to environmental stewardship and continued collaboration with public institutions to promote sustainability and ecological balance.