Miyawaki Forest launched in city under CSR initiative

Vardhman Special Steels Limited (VSSL), Ludhiana, launched a three-acre Miyawaki forest and green belt in the Challi Khoo area of Amritsar on Monday, as part of its CSR initiative, Project Prakriti. The project, developed in collaboration with the Municipal Corporation of Amritsar and MLA (East) Jiwanjot Kaur, was inaugurated by the MLA, Municipal Commissioner Bikramjeet Singh, Additional Commissioner Vishal Wadhawan and VSSL’s head of CSR

Amit Dhawan.

According to CSR head Amit Dhawan, the project aligns with the vision of VSSL chairman Sachit Jain to develop 1,000 acres of green forest space across Punjab to promote a healthier environment. “This forest will feature nearly 60 native plant species. Our previous initiative — a three-acre forest with 21,000 saplings — was also highly appreciated by the MLA and Municipal Commissioner,” said Dhawan.

VSSL has previously created a similar green space in Mallakpur village, Ludhiana, where 10,000 saplings of 44 varieties were planted under Project Prakriti. Dhawan emphasised the importance of cooperation from the Municipal Corporation and the MLA in bringing the Amritsar project to fruition.

“This will be the largest Miyawaki forest in Amritsar, featuring walking paths and dense plantations that will contribute to improving air quality in the city,” he added. Representatives from EcoSikh explained the environmental benefits of planting native tree species, noting their crucial role in sustaining biodiversity and enhancing the local ecosystem.

MLA Jiwanjot Kaur expressed gratitude to VSSL chairman Sachit Jain for supporting the cause of environmental sustainability. She stressed such initiatives were vital for building a greener and healthier Punjab.

Officials from the Municipal Corporation, the VSSL CSR team and representatives from EcoSikh were also present.