Hundreds join rhododendron plantation drive in North Sikkim

Gangtok, Jul 15 (PTI) More than 300 people participated in a rhododendron plantation drive in North Sikkim's Lachen on Wednesday, in a community-led initiative aimed at conserving the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. The plantation drive, organised along the Lachen Gumpa Road, was led by Social Welfare Minister Samdup Lepcha. Addressing the gathering, Lepcha said planting indigenous species was crucial for preserving the Himalayan ecosystem. "Planting indigenous species like the rhododendron is essential for conserving biodiversity, preventing soil erosion, protecting natural water sources and strengthening our fragile mountain ecosystem," he said. Stressing that environmental conservation is a collective responsibility, the minister lauded the enthusiastic participation of local residents and urged them, particularly the youth, to ensure the survival of the newly planted saplings. "The real success of such drives lies not merely in planting trees but in nurturing them into healthy forests for future generations," he added. PTI COR SOM