In a heartwarming and inspiring event organized by the Crescent Group of Institutions, Prof. N.A. Ganie, presented a memento of appreciation and holy book to Prof. (Dr.) G.M. Bhat, popularly known as the “Green Man of SKUAST”. The gesture was a tribute to Prof. Bhat’s exemplary services to society at large and to the student community in particular.
The event was graced by notable personalities including Mr. Ab. Hamid Bhat, Proprietor of Rahim Greens, faculty members and students of the Crescent Group of Institutions.
Following the felicitation ceremony, a Plantation Drive-cum-Awareness Programme titled “One Tree, One Student – Ek Paed Maa Ke Naam” was inaugurated by Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganie within the premises of the institute in collaboration with Rahim Greens. Addressing the gathering, Prof. Ganie emphasized the vital importance of environmental conservation and called upon the students to become active guardians of nature. “Saving the environment is synonymous with saving humanity from extinction,” he remarked.
Other dignitaries who addressed the audience included Prof. (Dr.) G.M. Bhat, Dr. Aafaq A. Parrey, Scientist Silviculture and Agroforestry, Mr. Ab. Hamid Bhat, Adjunct faculty SKUAST-K, Er. Mohammad Shukiel Dar and Er. Mohammad Shahid Dar, Directors of the Crescent Group of Institutions.
Dr. G.M. Bhat spoke passionately about the importance of trees and environmental stewardship. Dr. Bhat highlighted the ecological, social, and spiritual significance of trees, encouraging students to embrace green values in their daily lives. He also thanked Prof. A.H. Mughal Dean Faculty of Forestry for his able leadership and continuous support in promoting green initiatives across institutions.
Dr. Aafaq A. Parrey, urged the students to take informed action towards sustainable forestry and climate resilience, underscoring the role of young minds in driving a greener future. He emphasized that trees are not only a source of oxygen and shade but also vital for soil conservation, water cycle regulation, and combating climate change.
Mr. Ab. Hamid Bhat also spoke to the students, encouraging them to become ambassadors of sustainability and reminding them that every small effort towards planting and protecting trees adds up to a significant change for the planet.
It is worth mentioning that thousands of saplings were provided free of cost to the institution under the “Greening Mission Campus Initiative”, encouraging large-scale participation from students in the noble cause of environmental preservation.
Prof. Ganie lauded Prof. G.M. Bhat’s relentless commitment, dedication, and invaluable contribution to environmental awareness and sustainable development efforts. The event served as a remarkable convergence of education, environment, and community service.
