KISHTWAR, MAY 20: In a shining example of innovation, teamwork, and environmental responsibility, the Department of Botany at Government Degree College (GDC) Kishtwar has established the institution’s first-ever vertical garden — a sustainable project built entirely with recycled plastic bottles.
The initiative was made possible through the visionary support of Principal Prof. Basharat Iqbal and the leadership of Head of the Department of Botany, Prof. Satish Kumar, who has consistently encouraged green and student-led innovations on campus.
Under the dedicated supervision of Prof. Asma Javaid, the project came to life with active participation from Semester VI students, who enthusiastically embraced each stage — collecting, preparing, and planting over 50 reused plastic bottles.
The garden now features a colorful collection of plants such as Salvia, Catharanthus, Dianthus, Geraniums and succulents, breathing new life into the campus environment.
The project reflects the remarkable commitment and collaboration of the faculty. Prof. Asma Javaid brought creativity and hands-on leadership to the effort, while Dr. Deepak Chauhan, Dr. Hassan Jaleel, Dr. Arshad, and Dr. Opender Surmal offered their expertise and tireless support throughout. Their collective efforts ensured the scientific, aesthetic, and educational success of the initiative.
The interdisciplinary spirit was further strengthened by Dr. Shazia Tabassum from the Department of Zoology, whose collaboration enriched the outcome.
Special acknowledgement goes to Jahangeer Sheikh and Shahid Hussain Giri, whose technical assistance and dedication were invaluable, as well as Talat Samreen and Rehan Kousar for their enthusiastic contributions.
Senior faculty members including Nain Kumar (Head, Department of Physics), Prof. Ajeet and Prof. Jai Deep also extended their support and appreciation, applauding the Botany Department’s innovative mindset and commitment to sustainability.
This vertical garden stands as a proud symbol of faculty mentorship, student creativity and institutional leadership, marking a new chapter in GDC Kishtwar’s journey toward eco-conscious education and campus greening.
