Tree fair opens at Nawabganj with call for greener future

NAWABGANJ, DINAJPUR, July 31: A three-day tree fair began in Nawabganj Upazila on Friday with a call to expand tree plantation as part of the government's nationwide campaign to improve environmental protection and increase green cover.

The fair, organised by the Nawabganj Upazila Administration and the Department of Forest (DoF), was inaugurated by Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister Professor Dr AZM Zahid Hossain, MP, by cutting a ribbon on the Upazila Parishad premises.

The event is being held under the theme, "Beautify the country with tree plantation, Bangladesh first."

Following the inauguration, the minister launched the tree plantation campaign by planting saplings on the Upazila Parishad premises.

He later addressed the opening ceremony as the chief guest at the Upazila Parishad auditorium. The programme was presided over by Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Bidhan Kanti Halder.

Speaking at the event, the minister underscored the importance of tree plantation in protecting the environment, preserving biodiversity and ensuring a greener future for the next generation. He urged people from all walks of life to actively participate in the nationwide plantation drive.

During his visit, the minister also inaugurated the repaired and renovated Upazila Parishad auditorium.

He later distributed sewing machines among beneficiaries from small ethnic communities under the Prime Minister's Office Special Area Development Assistance Programme. Scholarships were also awarded to underprivileged students, while financial grant cheques were handed over to needy and meritorious students.