Pune: Sarhad College Sets Record, 1518 Students Plant Over 10,000 Aloe Vera Plants in a Day

Pune, 21 September 2024: In a remarkable initiative to promote environmental sustainability, 1,518 female students from Sarhad College, Katraj, set a record by planting 10,750 aloe vera plants in a single day. The event, held on the occasion of World Environmental Health Day, has been recognized by both the India Book of Records and the Asia Book of Records.

The mass planting took place at Sarhad College as part of an initiative aimed at fostering environmental consciousness among students. The event was graced by Sarhad Sanstha’s Founder President Sanjay Nahar, Secretary Sushma Nahar, Trustees Shailesh Wadekar and Anuj Nahar, former Principal Dr. Hanumantrao Jadwar, In-charge Principal Dr. Sangeeta Shinde, examiner Chitra Jain, along with other department heads, faculty members, and volunteer students.

Speaking about the initiative, Trustee Shailesh Wadekar emphasized the importance of instilling environmental values in students: “This activity was organized to inculcate in students the understanding that sustainable development can only be achieved by adopting an environmentally-friendly lifestyle. We aimed to inspire students not just to talk about conservation but to act on it.”

Adding to this, Trustee Anuj Nahar highlighted the ongoing activities in Kargil’s Suru Valley, where Sarhad Sanstha promotes naturopathy-based initiatives. “Aloe vera is known for its therapeutic benefits, and this plantation drive was an effort to make people more aware of naturopathy and the importance of natural remedies in today’s world.”

Dr. Sangeeta Shinde, In-charge Principal, remarked that the aloe vera planting initiative was designed to encourage environmental conservation. “Each student planted their aloe vera in an eco-friendly pot, which they will take home or plant in their local surroundings to further nurture the environment,” she said.

The event was coordinated by Dr. Varsha Nimbalkar from the Botany Department, with faculty members Dr. Swati Mane and Komal Shinde moderating the program. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Sriraj Bhor.

This record-breaking plantation drive is yet another milestone in Sarhad College’s commitment to fostering a greener and healthier planet, while also spreading awareness about the benefits of natural remedies like aloe vera. By encouraging students to take direct action, the college is equipping the next generation with the tools and mindset needed for environmental stewardship.