The Presidency University NSS Cell, in association with Rajanukunte Gram Panchayat, organised Van Mahotsava 2026 with the theme “One Mission: A Greener Tomorrow” on 15 August 2026 at Ittagalpura Lake, as part of the celebrations marking the 80th Independence Day.

 

As part of the preparations for the plantation drive, NSS volunteers visited Hennur Biodiversity Park and Hebbal Biodiversity Park to collect saplings for the programme. Approximately 350 saplings were collected, including species such as Pongamia pinnata, Sesbania grandiflora, Prunus serrulata and Swietenia mahagoni.

 

Around 40 student volunteers actively participated in the programme. The volunteers worked together to transport and organise the saplings and took part in the plantation activities at Ittagalpura Lake. Approximately 150 saplings were planted as part of the Van Mahotsava initiative, contributing to the efforts towards creating a greener and more sustainable environment.

 

The programme was coordinated by Renuka Bhagwat, NSS Programme Coordinator, and Dr Gaman P, NSS Officer. The student coordinators for the event were Saifullah Aftab, Keerthana A and Arjunan. Their guidance and coordination, along with the enthusiastic participation of the NSS volunteers, contributed to the smooth and successful conduct of the plantation drive.

 

The initiative reflected the NSS Cell’s commitment to environmental sustainability, community engagement and responsible citizenship, while encouraging students to actively contribute to the creation of greener and healthier communities.

 

Student Participants