Shillong, Mar; 22: On the occasion of International Forest Day 2025, on Friday, IIM Shillong, in collaboration with the Forests & Environment Department, Meghalaya, hosted a Plantation Drive centered around the vital theme of “Forest and Food.” The event emphasized the urgent need for sustainable practices to ensure a
harmonious balance between development and environmental preservation.

In his address, Shri R. S. Gill, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Head of Forest Force (HoFF),
Meghalaya, Chief Guest, highlighted the pivotal role of forests in maintaining ecological balance and
ensuring food security. He emphasized the importance of preserving traditional knowledge, promoting
extensive tree plantation drives, and adopting eco-friendly practices as essential steps toward building
a greener and more sustainable future.

Prof. DP Goyal, Director, IIM Shillong, expressed profound appreciation for the Forests & Environment
Department’s initiative and pledged the institute’s commitment to strengthening future collaborative
endeavors.

The event was further graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including Shri D. Sathiyan,
Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Social Forestry & Environment), and Ms. Heisa Lato,
Divisional Forest Officer, Social Forestry Division. Their presence and contributions added immense
value to the discussions, highlighting the critical importance of collaborative strategies in achieving
effective and sustainable forest management.