On the occasion of World Environment Day 2026, observed this year on the theme of Climate Change, the Vice-Chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), Prof. Mazhar Asif, and the Registrar, JMI, Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi, inaugurated a large orchard named ‘Maa Vatika’ by planting 101 mango saplings on the university campus. Dedicated to mothers, the initiative aligns with the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s campaign, “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam,” and reinforces the Government of India’s commitment to environmental sustainability and ecological conservation.
The first mango sapling was planted in the designated green area behind the FTK Centre for Information Technology by four women representing mothers, symbolizing love, gratitude, and respect for motherhood.
Welcoming the dignitaries, Prof. Rajeev Singh, Head, Department of Environmental Sciences, JMI, felicitated the Vice-Chancellor and the Registrar with saplings. He informed the gathering that the 101 mango saplings had been generously donated by the Government of Delhi and JMI alumni. Expressing gratitude for their contribution, Prof. Singh remarked, “Every day should be observed as Environment Day. The Vice-Chancellor has consistently emphasized that the trees we plant should preferably be fruit-bearing so that birds, animals, and human beings can all benefit from them. Such initiatives contribute significantly to enhancing biodiversity. The designation of an entire orchard for this purpose reflects JMI’s strong commitment to environmental sustainability.”
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi, Registrar, JMI, explained that “the name ‘Maa Vatika’ was carefully chosen to reflect the revered position mothers hold across cultures and societies.” He urged faculty members, staff, and students to move beyond symbolic plantation drives and actively nurture the trees they plant. “It is not enough to plant a tree; we must ensure its growth and survival. Environmental awareness must become a way of life. Rapid urbanization and the shrinking of green spaces pose serious threats to ecological balance, biodiversity, and ultimately human existence. We must collectively work towards preserving and restoring our natural environment,” Prof. Rizvi added.
Delivering the presidential address, Prof. Mazhar Asif, Vice-Chancellor, JMI, congratulated the Department of Environmental Sciences, as well as the university’s horticulture staff and gardeners, for their efforts in maintaining and enriching the campus ecosystem. “Unlike urban centers, villages often maintain a close relationship with nature, preserving both flora and fauna and thereby contributing to a sustainable environment. Excessive consumption of natural resources in cities has led to deforestation, pollution, and environmental degradation. If corrective measures are not taken, humanity will face grave consequences,” Prof. Asif observed.
Highlighting the significance of the plantation drive, Prof. Asif noted, “The 101 mango trees planted on the campus, including indigenous varieties such as Dussehri, Amrapali, and Langra, would serve generations of students and contribute to the university’s rich biodiversity for decades to come.”
“Our indigenous tree varieties have long life spans and provide immense ecological benefits. Tree plantation is regarded as a noble act across cultures and traditions. Jamia Millia Islamia is home to a diverse range of flora, fauna, and bird species, and we must continue to strengthen this ecological heritage,” Prof. Asif said.
Prof. Asif also announced that the university plans to develop a large pond on campus to enhance groundwater recharge, improve rainwater harvesting, and prevent water-logging. “We are working towards creating a sizeable water body within the campus so that rainwater can be effectively collected and stored. This initiative will help raise groundwater levels and reduce drainage-related challenges during the monsoon season,” VC JMI Prof. Asif added.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from senior university functionaries, including Controller of Examinations, Prof. Ahteshamul Haq; Finance Office, Prof. Md. Kamalun Nabi; Chief Proctor, Prof. Asad Malik; Deans of Faculties—Prof. Iqtidar Mohd. Khan, Prof. Ghulam Yazdani, Prof. Bindulika Sharma; the Dean of Alumni Affairs, Prof. Asif Husain; University Librarian, Dr. Vikas Sitaramji Nagrale; Foreign Students’ Advisor, Prof. Saima Saeed, Heads of Departments; Directors of Centres; Security Advisor; university officers; members of the Horticulture Department; gardeners and sanitation staff; and students of the Department of Environmental Sciences. Participants also planted trees in the names of their mothers, further strengthening the spirit of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign.
Source : Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi