Summary:
"In the last year’s drive, the academy had planted as many as 4000 saplings on its campus. He also directed the Estate section of the academy that these saplings are taken care of to ensure their survivability. PUNE: Cadets , civilian staff and all rank military officers of the National Defence Academy ( NDA ) at Khadakwasla near here recently planted nearly 5000 saplings on the academy's sprawling campus as part of a green initiative.This exercise was aimed at preserving and developing flora and fauna and to inculcate a sense of responsibility towards nature among the cadets.The academy has been taking a conscious effort towards maintaining its dense vegetation by carrying out tree plantation and cleaning drives in regular intervals every year. In fact, its 7000 acre campus is known for its unique flora and fauna.Commandant of NDA Air Marshal I P Vipin led the plantation drive by planting saplings at the `Hut of Remembrance', a place where martyred officers and soldiers from the Indian armed forces are paid tributes on specific occasions.The commandant lauded the efforts put in by all the officers, staffers and cadets during the drive.An NDA official told TOI, “The commandant is of the opinion that flora and fauna is an integral part of our life and hence it is imperative for every one of us to contribute in maintaining ecological balance..