JAMMU: In a simple yet impressive function, the Jammu & Kashmir Legal Services Authority (J&K LSA) today organized a plantation drive at the official residence of Chief Justice, High Court of J&K and Ladakh. The initiative aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and encouraging the plantation of fruit-bearing trees.
During the event, Justice Tashi Rabstan, Chief Justice, High Court of J&K and Ladakh (Patron-in-Chief, J&K Legal Services Authority) alongwith Shahzad Azeem, Registrar General, M. K. Sharma, Principal Secretary to CJ, Amit Kumar Gupta, Member Secretary, J&K Legal Services Authority and Mayank Gupta, Joint Registrar (Judicial/Protocol), Jammuplanted fruit-bearing saplings at the Chief Justice’s Banglov, Jammu.
The saplings were provided by Dr. K. C. Sharma, a renowned surgeon and philanthropist, who has been instrumental in developing the Summer Zone Apple variety. This unique variety, which can thrive in high temperatures of up to 48°C, has been successfully cultivated across multiple states, including J&K, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Gujarat. It has the potential to revolutionize fruit cultivation by ensuring fruit production within just 13 months of plantation, even in warmer regions.
Dr. Sharma’s research has led to the successful plantation of these apples in various prestigious locations, including Vaishno Devi University, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Raj Bhavan, UT of J&K and military establishments. His contributions to Indian horticulture have been widely recognized, and his efforts have played a crucial role in making India self-reliant in apple production beyond traditional cold-climate regions.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Justice appreciated the efforts of J&K Legal Services Authority in promoting eco-friendly initiatives and emphasized the importance of afforestation and sustainable agricultural practices. He also lauded Dr. K. C. Sharma for his dedication to horticultural research and his commitment to environmental conservation.
On this occasion, Dr. Sharma also presented books authored by him, one of which depicts the problems and solutions of the Ladakh region. His literary contributions reflect his deep understanding of environmental and agricultural challenges, further reinforcing the need for innovative solutions to ensure sustainable development.
In addition, many saplings were also planted at the High Court Guest House at VIP-1, Ved Mandir Enclave, Jammu, further extending the green initiative.
J&K Legal Services Authority remains committed to furthering its environmental initiatives and will continue to organize similar plantation drives across the Union Territory.
