JAMMU: Deputy Commissioner Sachin Kumar Vaishya, chaired a meeting aimed at driving forward the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign focussed on tree plantation across the district.

The meeting saw the participation of key officers, including DFO Suresh Manda.

The DC briefed Sub-Divisional Magistrates, Chief Education Officers, Chief Medical Officer and other district officers on their roles in the campaign.

He emphasised the importance of involving panchayat ghars and the rural population to ensure widespread participation and success.

The meeting delved into identifying tree species that are best suited to the local environment and easy to propagate.

Discussions also covered the numerous benefits of afforestation and strategies for protecting young trees. The DC reminded all participants to plant trees in their offices and homes, and to plant trees in memory of the nation's martyrs. He highlighted the ambitious goal of planting one lakh trees in the district.

"All panchayats and Urban Local Bodies in the district will participate in the campaign," stated Sachin Kumar. "Plantation will be carried out at all government facilities, including panchayat ghars, tehsil offices, health institutions and government schools. District officers will coordinate and execute the mission on the ground, with SDMs and the DFO ensuring comprehensive implementation throughout the district."

The DC also discussed with the DFO ways to ensure the preservation and protection of the newly planted trees.

In a subsequent meeting, the DC addressed solid waste management plans for both rural areas and ULBs. The discussion covered waste segregation strategies and the management of legacy waste. The DC called for regular reviews of the progress made on waste management objectives and addressed operational challenges and future steps.

Key attendees at the meeting also included Additional District Development Commissioner Sher Singh, Chief Planning Officer Uttam Singh, Assistant Commissioner Revenue Dr. Rajesh Kumar and Assistant Commissioner Development Dr. Vikas Sharma besides SDMs among other district officers.