Puducherry: Pondicherry University on Tuesday organised a mega tree plantation drive under the Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect initiative and as part of the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' Campaign 2.0.

The event, coordinated by the Office of the Dean (Students' Welfare) along with the NSS and NCC units, was inaugurated by Vice-Chancellor Prof. P Prakash Babu, who planted the first sapling and formally launched the programme.

Over 65 varieties of fruit-bearing trees, including coconut, mango, chikku, jackfruit, guava, amla and blueberry, were planted across the campus.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Babu underscored the environmental importance of tree plantation, citing three major benefits — improving air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, regulating temperatures through shade to mitigate the urban heat island effect, and supporting biodiversity by providing habitats for birds, insects and small animals.

Deans, heads of departments, faculty, research scholars and students participated in large numbers. Senior statutory officers present included Dr Tharanivukkarasu, Director (Studies), Dr Clement Sagayaradja Lourdes, Director (Culture), Dr Rajneesh Bhutani, Registrar (i/c), Dr Vijay Kumar, Librarian, Dr Sadananda Swamy, Controller of Examinations, Dr Y Venkata Rao, Dean (Students' Welfare), Prof Sibi P S, Deputy Dean (Students' Welfare), Dr Satheesh, NSS Coordinator, and Dr Humanyun, NCC Coordinator.

The university said the initiative is part of its ongoing efforts to promote sustainability, environmental awareness and community participation in building a greener campus.