Nature conservation in focus at Paudh Mela

The UT Forest and Wildlife Department organised a ‘Paudh Mela’ at the Lake Club parking area today as a key part of the ongoing Van Mahotsav-2025 celebrations.

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UT Chief Secretary Rajeev Verma inaugurated the event, which featured over 20 thematic stalls showcasing a wide spectrum of efforts and innovations in forest and wildlife conservation, pollution control, renewable energy and community-driven environmental initiatives.

The Forest Department put on display a rich collection of saplings, including fruit-bearing, flowering, ornamental/shade-giving, medicinal and kitchen garden species. The Municipal Corporation and Engineering Department also participated with informative exhibits.

Various NGOs, including Yuvsatta, Youth Innovative Society and Global Youth Federation, along with eco clubs from local schools, namely Vasudha Eco Club (GMSSS-22A), Soanjana Eco Club (GMSSS-46D), and Nag Kesar Eco Club (PM Shri GMSSS-14, Dhanas), displayed a diverse range of eco-friendly products, including vermicompost from dead leaves, cloth bags from fabric scraps, herbal juices, terracotta items, dhoop battis made from dry flowers and handicraft by self-help groups.

The Chandigarh Renewable Energy and Science & Technology Promotion Society showcased electric vehicles and other renewable energy solutions, reflecting the UT’s focus on sustainable and clean development.

Wildlife rescue vehicles flagged off

Verma, along with Mandip Singh Brar, Secretary, Forest and Wildlife, flagged off a wildlife rescue van and motorbikes. These vehicles, procured under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority scheme, will strengthen the department’s capacity to respond swiftly to man-animal conflicts and enable rapid wildlife rescue operations.

Verma said over 5 lakh saplings would be planted across Chandigarh during Van Mahotsav-2025, which was formally inaugurated by the Punjab Governor and UT Administrator on July 5.