On 4th October 2024, 51 NSS volunteers of Sri Aurobindo College of Commerce and Management visited the Miyawaki forest developed by Vardhman Special Steels, located on an expansive five-acre plot amidst the industrial area of Ludhiana. This forest is home to over 50,000 trees and is designed to replicate a natural habitat through the Miyawaki methodology. The visit aimed to provide volunteers with firsthand experience of sustainable forestry practices and foster a deeper understanding of ecological balance and biodiversity. The volunteers were apprised of the Miyawaki method, pioneered by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, focuses on creating dense, native forests that require support local biodiversity with minimal maintenance. This approach involves planting a diverse mix of indigenous tree species close together, allowing them to compete for sunlight and nutrients, resulting in faster growth and higher resilience. Vardhman Special Steels has successfully implemented this method to restore the ecological balance in the region and promote environmental sustainability. During the visit, students had the opportunity to explore the forest, engage with nature, and observe the dense plantation and the rich diversity of flora fascinated the students, providing them with a tangible understanding of the Miyawaki methodology. Mr. R. K. Rewari, the Secretary of the Governing Body of SACCM and Executive Director of Vardhman Special Steels shared his insights on the importance of sustainable development and the role of industries in environmental conservation. He spoke about the significance of involving local communities in conservation efforts and raising awareness about environmental issues. Principal Prof. (Dr.) Vishal Kumar further expressed his profound appreciation for Vardhman Special Steels’ visionary initiative, emphasizing that it not only makes a significant contribution to ecological restoration but also serves as an invaluable educational platform for the students and future generations.
