CSIR–Institute of Microbial Technology (CSIR-IMTECH) celebrated Van Mahotsav 2026 by organizing a plantation drive at its Sector 39A campus in collaboration with the Department of Forest & Wildlife, Chandigarh Administration, reinforcing its commitment to environmental sustainability and ecological conservation.

The plantation drive was led by Dr. Alka Rao, Director, CSIR-IMTECH, and Dr. Sachin Raut, In-charge, Horticulture Division, with enthusiastic participation from scientists, technical and administrative staff, and research scholars. 

The initiative also aligned with the national campaign "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam," symbolizing the nurturing bond between motherhood and nature.

Dr. Alka Rao, Director, CSIR-IMTECH, underscored the significance of protecting natural ecosystems and adopting sustainable practices.

"Van Mahotsav serves as a reminder of our collective duty to protect and nurture the environment for future generations. We must actively contribute towards sustainable practices and make tree plantation a continuous community effort rather than a one-time activity," she said.

The institute also expressed its appreciation to its partners for supporting the initiative. CSIR-IMTECH acknowledged the contributions of Saurabh Kumar, IFS, Chief Conservator of Forest, Department of Forest & Wildlife, Chandigarh Administration, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Chandigarh, CII–Indian Women Network (IWN), Chandigarh Tricity Chapter, and JADE XCLUSIVE, Chandigarh, for providing saplings and helping make the plantation drive a success.

The initiative reflects CSIR-IMTECH's ongoing efforts to integrate environmental responsibility into its institutional activities while encouraging the scientific community to play an active role in preserving natural resources for future generations.