Mass Avenue Rhododendron Plantation Drive in Lachen Draws Massive Public Participation
Mangan, July 15 (IPR): Reinforcing the commitment towards environmental conservation and biodiversity preservation in the Himalayan region, a Mass Avenue Rhododendron Plantation Drive was organised today along the Lachen Gumpa Road in Lachen, Mangan District.
The plantation drive was led by Minister for Social Welfare, Women, Child, Senior Citizen and Divyangjan Welfare, Government of Sikkim and Area MLA, Lachen Mangan, Mr Samdup Lepcha, in the presence of Pipon Mr Cho Bandu Lachenpa and Pipon Mr Khaychotak Lachenpa.
The programme was attended by Divisional Forest Officer (Territorial), Mangan, Mr Manzil Kharel, ACF(Chungthang), Mr Norden Bhutia, Range Officer Mr Tenzing Bhutia, Block Officer Mr Sonam Dadul Bhutia, officials and field staff of the Forest and Environment Department, along with more than 300 members of the public, who participated enthusiastically in the plantation drive.
Addressing the gathering, Minister cum Area MLA Mr Samdup Lepcha underscored the ecological, cultural and symbolic significance of the Rhododendron, the State Tree of Sikkim and one of the Himalayan region’s most iconic flowering species. He emphasised that planting indigenous species such as Rhododendron is vital for maintaining ecological balance, strengthening the fragile mountain ecosystem, enhancing forest cover, conserving biodiversity, preventing soil erosion and protecting natural water sources.
The Minister further stated that environmental conservation is a collective responsibility that requires active public participation. Appreciating the overwhelming response from the local community, he lauded the enthusiastic involvement of people from all sections of society, stating that such mass participation drives reflect the growing environmental consciousness among the people of Lachen. He urged citizens, particularly the youth, to take ownership of the planted saplings and ensure their protection and survival, stressing that true success lies not only in planting trees but also in nurturing them into healthy forests for future generations.
The programme concluded with the plantation of hundreds of Rhododendron saplings along the Lachen Gumpa Road, reaffirming the shared commitment of the Forest and Environment Department, local administration and the people of Lachen towards preserving the region’s unique natural heritage and promoting sustainable environmental stewardship.
- Report from DIO Mangan