Governor gave a clarion call to preserve forest wealth, inaugurates 74th Van Mahotsav

Shimla, 09 August, 2023.  Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla today planted a sapling of Deodar on the occasion of 74^th State Level Van Mahotsav organized at Bagh near Shimla, jointly under the aegis of Himachal Pradesh State Red Cross Society and State Forest Department. On the occasion, Lady Governor, Janaki Shukla, who is also the President of the State Red Cross Hospital Welfare Section also planted saplings.

The Governor said that nature has blessed Himachal with immense beauty. But, when we mess with nature, we have to pay heavy price for it. “Development is the need of the hour but at the same time environment concerns should also be kept in mind besides preserving our rich forest wealth”, said Shukla.

Member, National Red Cross Management Committee, Dr. Sadhna Thakur, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Rajeev Kumar and PCCF Admin, Amitabh Gautam, Honorary Secretary, State Red Cross Dr. Kimi Sood and other members were also present on the occasion. Later, the Governor also visited the Mental Health and Rehabilitation Hospital, Shimla and interacted with the inmates there. He also distributed fruits to the patients. Volunteers of Red Cross and NSS also participated in afforestation drive.

The Governor also reviewed the National Mental Health Program being implemented in the state with the officers of the Health Department. He said that effective steps were being taken against drugs in the State at every level and added that addicts should be counseled in a more effective manner or taken for consultation to the psychiatrists, besides ensuring their rehabilitation.

Director, Health Services, Dr. Gopal Berry detailed about the NMH Program being implemented in the State.  Secretary to the Governor, Rajesh Sharma, Chief Medical Officer and Medical Superintendent, Mental Health and Rehabilitation Hospital, Shimla,   Dr. Surekha Chopra and other officers were also present on the occasion.