Tree Plantation and Ecological Restoration Initiative

Growing a Greener and More Biodiverse Punjab

Long before the establishment of PAHAL in 1996, environmental conservation was already an important part of the movement that would later shape the organisation’s vision and values.

During the 1980s and early 1990s, Professor Lakhbir Singh began mobilising students and young people through educational and community initiatives while serving as a faculty member and later as the Convener of the National Service Scheme (NSS) Unit at DAV College, Jalandhar. Concerned by the growing disconnect between people and nature, he encouraged youth participation in environmental protection through cleanliness drives, tree plantation campaigns and habitat restoration activities.

These early efforts laid the foundation for what would become one of PAHAL’s longest-running and most impactful community initiatives.

Today, PAHAL’s environmental work extends across tree plantation, ecological restoration, biodiversity conservation, environmental awareness and community engagement, with a vision of creating healthier ecosystems and more environmentally conscious communities.

Impact at a Glance

5,50,000+

Trees Planted

Since the 1980s

Environmental Action and Community Mobilisation

Thousands

Of Volunteers, Students and Community Members Engaged

Long-Term Commitment

To Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation

Why Environmental Action Matters

Punjab faces significant environmental challenges, including declining tree cover, biodiversity loss, groundwater depletion, air pollution and habitat degradation.

Professor Lakhbir Singh often highlighted the urgent need for environmental action, drawing attention to the fact that Punjab has one of the lowest levels of forest and tree cover in the country. He believed that environmental conservation was not merely about planting trees, but about creating healthier landscapes, healthier communities and a more sustainable future.

He frequently emphasized that increasing tree cover and protecting natural ecosystems are essential not only for addressing climate change and biodiversity loss but also for tackling local challenges such as declining groundwater levels, poor air quality and growing public health concerns.

Beyond Tree Plantation

PAHAL believes that successful environmental conservation is about much more than planting large numbers of saplings.

Over the years, the organisation’s approach has evolved to focus on ecological restoration and long-term environmental stewardship.

Key principles guiding our work include:

• Promoting native trees and plant species
• Supporting local biodiversity
• Understanding and conserving Punjab’s natural ecosystems
• Encouraging community ownership and stewardship
• Prioritising survival and long-term care of planted saplings
• Restoring degraded habitats where possible

PAHAL recognises that Punjab’s natural heritage includes not only forests but also scrublands, grasslands and other ecosystems that support unique biodiversity and ecological functions.

Caring for Trees, Not Just Planting Them

A planted sapling creates impact only when it survives and grows.

For this reason, PAHAL promotes plantation activities only where long-term care and protection can be ensured. The organisation encourages plantation efforts in locations where maintenance and survival support can be provided for at least two years after planting.

This approach shifts the focus from plantation numbers to ecological outcomes.

By prioritising survival, growth and habitat creation, PAHAL seeks to ensure that environmental efforts result in meaningful and lasting change.

Youth, Communities and Environmental Stewardship

Environmental action has always been closely linked with youth engagement in PAHAL’s work.

Students, volunteers, community groups, educational institutions and local residents regularly participate in plantation drives, awareness campaigns, habitat restoration activities and environmental education programmes.

These activities help foster a deeper understanding of nature while encouraging citizens to become active participants in protecting their local environment.

Our Vision

PAHAL envisions a greener, healthier and more biodiverse Punjab where people and nature thrive together.

Through tree plantation, ecological restoration, environmental education and community participation, we continue to work towards restoring ecosystems, strengthening biodiversity and building environmental responsibility across generations.

How You Can Support

You can support this initiative by volunteering, sponsoring plantation activities, supporting ecological restoration projects or contributing towards the long-term care and maintenance of planted trees.