Pantnagar: Chouhan plants saplings, promotes sustainable agriculture

Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Friday planted saplings at Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology in Pantnagar, highlighting the need to balance agricultural progress with environmental conservation.During his visit to the university campus in Udham Singh Nagar district, Chouhan participated in a plantation programme aimed at promoting greenery and encouraging collective efforts towards protecting the environment. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also extended greetings to the Union Agriculture Minister on the occasion.

#WATCH | Uttarakhand | Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami planted saplings at Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar https://t.co/IeLIftmIZN pic.twitter.com/C95dpTVgoI

— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) June 26, 2026

The plantation drive was attended by university officials, faculty members and other stakeholders associated with the institution, according to sources. The initiative was part of Chouhan’s visit to the country’s first agricultural university, which has played a major role in agricultural education, research and technology advancement over the years.Interacting with students, the Agriculture Minister emphasised the importance of maintaining soil health for sustainable farming. He urged farmers to focus on improving soil fertility and increasing organic carbon levels, saying healthy soil is essential for better productivity and long-term food security.“Save the health of the soil, increase organic carbon,” Chouhan said, stressing that sustainable farming practices are crucial for strengthening the agricultural sector.
The minister’s participation in the plantation programme reflects the government’s focus on integrating environmental responsibility with agricultural development. Such initiatives aim to encourage farmers, students and communities to contribute towards increasing green cover and adopting climate-friendly practices.The event also highlighted the role of agricultural universities in spreading awareness about sustainable farming methods, biodiversity conservation and efficient use of natural resources. Institutions like Pantnagar University continue to work on research related to climate-resilient agriculture, water management and improved cultivation techniques.
Established as a pioneer in agricultural education and research, Govind Ballabh Pant University has contributed significantly to the development and promotion of modern farming practices. The university continues to serve as a centre for innovation, farmer training and dissemination of agricultural technologies.Officials said plantation activities help strengthen environmental awareness while reinforcing the message that ecological conservation and agricultural growth must move together. The initiative is expected to inspire students, researchers and local communities to participate in similar efforts for a greener future.