VC, JMI Inaugurate ‘Maa Vatika’ by Planting 101 Mango Trees;

 VC and Registrar, Jamia Millia Islamia Inaugurate ‘Maa Vatika’ by Planting 101 Mango Trees; University to Develop Pond for Rainwater Harvesting

On the occasion of World Environment Day 2026, observed this year on the theme of Climate Change, the Vice-Chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), Prof. Mazhar Asif, and the Registrar, JMI, Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam

Rizvi, inaugurated a large orchard named ‘Maa Vatika’ by planting 101 mango saplings on the university campus. Dedicated to mothers, the initiative aligns with the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s campaign, “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam," and reinforces the Government of India’s commitment to environmental sustainability and ecological conservation.

 

The first mango sapling was planted in the designated green area behind the FTK Centre for Information Technology by four women representing mothers, symbolizing love, gratitude, and respect for motherhood.

 

Welcoming the dignitaries, Prof. Rajeev Singh, Head, Department of Environmental Sciences, JMI, felicitated the Vice-Chancellor and the Registrar with saplings. He informed the gathering that the 101 mango saplings had been generously donated by the Government of Delhi and JMI alumni. Expressing gratitude for their contribution, Prof. Singh remarked, “Every day should be observed as Environment Day. The Vice-Chancellor has consistently emphasized that the trees we plant should preferably be fruit-bearing so that birds, animals, and human beings can all benefit from them. Such initiatives contribute significantly to enhancing biodiversity. The designation of an entire orchard for this purpose reflects JMI’s strong commitment to environmental sustainability.”

 

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi, Registrar, JMI, explained that "the name ‘Maa Vatika’ was carefully chosen to reflect the revered position mothers hold across cultures and societies." He urged faculty members, staff, and students to move beyond symbolic plantation drives and actively nurture the trees they plant. “It is not enough to plant a tree; we must ensure its growth and survival. Environmental awareness must become a way of life. Rapid urbanization and the shrinking of green spaces pose serious threats to ecological balance, biodiversity, and ultimately human existence. We must collectively work towards preserving and restoring our natural environment,” Prof. Rizvi added.