Tree plantation by Delhi University for peace and harmony in the Middle East
New Delhi: Tree plantation has been an important symbolic initiative to strengthen peace and regional relations among SAARC member countries. Recently, during the South Asian Journalists Association Conference held at Delhi University in February, a seminar and tree plantation drive on the theme of concern for Gandhi and Journalism was held in the Gandhi Bhawan campus to showcase regional linkages.
Recent symbolic initiatives of peace and goodwill efforts among SAARC countries Peace and Cooperation Summit: In February 2026, journalists from Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and India discussed the topic ‘Peace and Cooperation’ in New Delhi. During this time, tree plantation was done as a symbol of development of regional relations. 40th Anniversary of SAARC Charter The 40th anniversary of the SAARC Charter was celebrated on 8 December 2025. Speaking on the occasion, the Secretary-General called for confidence building and reviving goodwill in the South Asian region. Environment and Forestry Cooperation SAARC countries have recognized environmental protection as the basis for peace and prosperity. Thimpu Statement: In July 2024, a meeting was held in Bhutan to review the implementation of the Thimphu Statement on Climate Change. It aims to build a ‘Green and Happy South Asia’. Emphasis on Forestry: The Ministers of SAARC countries have laid special emphasis on sustainable management and community-based afforestation of the rich bio-diverse forests of South Asia. The country considers tree planting and environmental protection as a means to tackle shared problems such as climate change, rising temperatures (which are said to need to be reduced by 43% by 2030) and natural disasters. SAARC was established in 1985 to promote regional cooperation, peace and welfare. In view of the common challenges, journalists from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka took a step in this direction by planting saplings.
The event, jointly organised by SAARC Collaboration Foundation, Gandhi Bhawan and SAARC Journalist Forum, is significant as the efforts of SAARC Journalist Forum will set an example for the entire world and take forward Gandhi’s vision of environment. As the chief guest of the event, Higher Education Secretary Alok Mishra described Gandhi and his thoughts as important for peace in South Asian countries. Peace can only be restored by putting Gandhi into practice, not merely by reading him. “Our efforts are not just paper, but the basis of the ground for peace. Dr Rajendra
