Mangaluru: Prof Narendra L Nayak, chairman, Expert Group of Institutions, inaugurated Vanamahostava programme at Expert PU College Valachil.

Prof Narendra L Nayak inaugurated the tree-planting drive by planting varieties of saplings. Then he explained the significance of Vanamahostava and elucidated the importance of trees in providing oxygen, harvesting water and conserving ecology. He urged the students to inculcate knowledge about afforestation at their young age and also guided them to give highest priority to conserve forests for better future.

Guarav Kamath software Architect, Boston, USA, was the guest of honour, appreciated the Indians’ involvement towards Vanamahostava celebrations. He said that trees are the most precious part of life and also lauded the ambiance of Expert College for cool weather.

Shreedhar, range forest officer, Mangaluru, briefed the importance of Vanamahostava celebration and congratulated Expert College for the endeavour in this regard.

Ankush N Nayak, director, Information Technology, Expert Group of Institutions, said in his keynote address that Expert has been celebrating Vanamahostava such a grand manner for many years to create awareness towards afforestation. He also suggested new strategies and innovative ideas for planting varieties of saplings in and around the campus in the years to come.

Ushaprabha N Nayak, vice-chairperson, Expert group of Institutions, presided over the function, appreciated the students for their active participation in the programme. Dr N K Vijayan Karippal, principal, Expert PU College, Valachil, and faculty members were present on the occasion.

Varsha Shetty, first PU student welcomed the gathering and compered the programme and Prasad Prabhu, second PU student, rendered the vote of thanks.

After the formal function, students planted more than 500 saplings of twenty two varieties.