Judicial officers lead plantation drive under ‘Mission One Judge, One Tree’

In a significant step towards promoting environmental sustainability, judicial officers across Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar and Jalandhar participated in plantation drives under the nationwide campaign “Mission One Judge, One Tree.” The initiative, guided by the National Legal Services Authority and Punjab State Legal Services Authority, aims to instill ecological responsibility among members of the judiciary.

At the New Judicial Court Complex in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, the event was held under the supervision of District and Sessions Judge-cum-Chairperson, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Priya Sood, and led by Dr Amandeep, Chief Judicial Magistrate-cum-Secretary, DLSA. A variety of saplings were planted across the court premises, symbolising a long-term commitment to environmental conservation.

Notable participants included Additional District and Sessions Judges Harish Anand, Aparajita Joshi, and Gagandeep Kaur; Principal Judge, Family Court, Baljinder Singh Mann; Chairman of the Permanent Lok Adalat Ashok Kapoor; and several Civil Judges. Members of the Bar Association, including President S.S.S. Kundra and Secretary Rajinder Singh, also joined the drive. All participants pledged to nurture their saplings, reflecting the judiciary’s collective dedication to green practices.

Simultaneously, Jalandhar observed “Green oath day” under the same mission. The plantation drive was led by Rajeev K. Beri, Incharge District & Sessions Judge, and Rahul Kumar Azad, Chief Judicial Magistrate-cum-Secretary, DLSA Jalandhar. Judicial officers from Jalandhar, Nakodar, and Phillaur planted and adopted saplings at the Government Model Co-Education Senior Secondary School and Government Model School of Eminence, both located on Ladowali Road.

Beneficial tree species such as neem, arjun, mango, Indian rosewood, and amaltas were planted. Each officer received a booklet to record the sapling’s details, ensuring accountability and continuity even during transfers. The drive received strong support from the school principals, staff, and DLSA team, including Senior Assistant Jagan Nath.

Speaking at their respective events, both District and Sessions Judges highlighted the crucial role of the judiciary in leading by example in environmental stewardship. They encouraged citizens to take advantage of the monsoon season by planting trees and contributing to a healthier, greener future.