SHIMLA- 25 September, 2024-Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla applauded the Territorial Army's vital role in environmental conservation. He noted that the Indian Army excels in disaster management, environmental protection and other activities besides defending the nation's borders.
He was speaking during the platinum Jubilee celebrations of the Territorial Army at Kufri, Shimla today, where he was invited as the Chief Guest. He also dedicated the rejuvenated 'Kufar' (water Pond) in local parlance, after which Kufri was named.
He praised the Army for undertaking the restoration work of Kufri Pond and stated that the 133 Eco Dogra Infantry battalion has played a pivotal role in environment conservation since its establishment from 2006. The Eco warriors of the unit have planted over 75,000 trees under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam Abhiyan' from 15th July to 17th September, 2024. The battalion has also undertaken afforestation drives throughout the State. Besides this, the battalion has also contributed in organizing workshops and awareness campaigns on environmental protection, mitigating disasters and other initiatives.
He said that the Kufri was a famous tourist destination and visited by number of tourists from all around the Globe. Emphasizing on 'Jal hi Jeevan Hai', the Governor said that he came to know that the Kufri Pond was adopted by the Eco battalion and restored its pristine beauty besides taking measures for its source cleanliness and restoring it to life.
Commanding Officer Col. Mohan Singh welcomed the Governor and detailed about the activities of the battalion.
Station Commander, Shimla, Brigadier Navdeep Brar also welcomed the Governor on the occasion and thanked him for gracing the occasion.
Dhian Chand, a leading businessman and local resident of Kufri briefed the Governor about the historical significance of the 'Kufar' (Pond). The Local Panchayat Pradhan, Inder Singh proposed vote of thanks.
Officers from the army and district administration and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.