Mussoorie, July 26: Demonstrating that environmental stewardship is built through commitment rather than symbolism, the Garhwal Sabha Mahila Sabha marked the Harela festival with a large-scale plantation drive at the Mussoorie Public School (MPS) campus, where around 40 women planted more than 50 saplings despite persistent rain.
The initiative brought together women from different generations—from young participants to senior members —whose enthusiasm and dedication served as an inspiration for the community. Their participation reflected the enduring tradition of the Garhwal Sabha Mahila Sabha, which has been organising tree plantation drives every year at different locations across Mussoorie.
This year’s plantation included a variety of fruit-bearing and useful species such as pear, peach, plum, apple and bay leaf. However, members stressed that the true success of the campaign lies not in the number of saplings planted but in ensuring that every tree survives and flourishes.
Speaking on the occasion, Sudha Jhildiyal, President of the Garhwal Sabha Mahila Sabha, said the organisation remains committed to making Mussoorie greener through sustained plantation efforts. She added that every participant had pledged to look after the saplings so they continue to grow and contribute to the town’s ecological health.
Former Councillor Bharosi Rawat highlighted the importance of Harela, describing it as a festival that celebrates nature and reminds people of their responsibility towards the environment. She explained that the plantation site was intentionally chosen because it is close to the homes of many members, making it practical for them to regularly water, monitor and protect the saplings. Drawing from past experience, she noted that trees planted earlier by the Sabha at Hussain Ganj are thriving today because members continued caring for them long after the plantation ceremony ended.
Unlike many plantation drives that conclude after the ceremonial planting, the Garhwal Sabha Mahila Sabha has developed a tradition of revisiting its plantation sites throughout the year. Members believe that consistent care is the only way to ensure the success of afforestation efforts, making the annual campaign both meaningful and sustainable.
The event concluded with a collective appeal to citizens to participate in protecting Mussoorie’s fragile Himalayan environment. The sight of elderly women working shoulder to shoulder with younger participants in the rain served as a powerful reminder that environmental responsibility knows no age and that community-driven conservation can inspire an entire town.
Among those present were Sudha Jhildiyal, Rajni Aikant, Bharosi Rawat, Rajni Panwar, Shashi Rawat, Tanu Uniyal, Laxmi Uniyal, Leela Kandari, Rekha, Namita Kumai, Bhawna Rawat, Rekha Negi, Sunita Negi, Dr. Sheetal Panwar, Manisha Kharola, Beena Gunsola, Meena Negi, Pushpa Padiyar, Seema, Anita Pundir, Rekha Rawat, Usha Joshi, Usha Dhanai, Sunita Barmola, Rajeshwari Bhatt, Vinita Negi, Rajeshwari Negi, Sushma, Nutan, Nimakant, Kamla Kandari, Anita Thalwal, Kalpana Nautiyal and other members of the Garhwal Sabha Mahila Sabha.
