Garhwal Post Bureau
Pithoragarh, 30 Jun: In a significant initiative towards environmental conservation, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable development, 130 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) Ecological Kumaon successfully conducted a special plantation drive of 10,000 saplings in the landslide-affected Deval Village of Pithoragarh district today. The campaign witnessed enthusiastic participation from the State Forest Department, ex-servicemen, local villagers, public representatives, and members of various social organisations, reflecting a collective commitment towards environmental protection.
Deval Village is a geographically fragile and landslide-prone area where recurring landslides and falling boulders during the monsoon pose a serious threat to life and property. The tragic death of a young boy last year after a boulder struck his house further highlighted the vulnerability of the region. Keeping these concerns in view, the plantation drive was undertaken to stabilise vulnerable slopes, prevent soil erosion, reduce land degradation, and restore ecological balance.
It is worth noting that the Battalion had also planted approximately 10,000 saplings in the same area last year, the positive impact of which is now clearly visible. The present campaign is a continuation of these sustained and long-term efforts aimed at making the region safer, greener, and environmentally resilient.
The programme was attended by Ganesh Bhandari, Minister of State for Energy; Ashutosh Singh, IFS, Divisional Forest Officer; the Block Development Officer; Watershed Project Officer; Station House Officer, Jajardeval; District Disaster Management Officer; along with several other civil administration officials, public representatives, and local residents.
For over three decades, 130 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) Ecological Kumaon has been at the forefront of afforestation and environmental conservation in the hill regions of Uttarakhand. The Battalion has planted and nurtured more than 25.4 million saplings, developing green cover over approximately 23,500 hectares with a survival rate exceeding 75 percent. These sustained efforts have significantly contributed to increasing forest cover, conserving soil, rejuvenating water sources, and preserving biodiversity. In recognition of its outstanding contribution to environmental conservation, the Battalion has received numerous national and state-level awards and commendations.
On the occasion, Kalpana Devalal, Mayor of Pithoragarh Municipal Corporation, presented a Certificate of Appreciation to 130 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) Ecological Kumaon in recognition of its exceptional contribution towards environmental conservation, public awareness, and large-scale afforestation initiatives that have enhanced the green cover of the district.
The plantation drive was not merely an environmental activity but a community-driven initiative aimed at strengthening disaster resilience and conserving natural resources. The Battalion’s sustained efforts are expected to play a vital role in making the Deval region safer, greener, and more ecologically secure while further promoting environmental awareness and community participation in conservation efforts.
