Governor calls for movement to promote ecology

“A mass awakening and a movement to promote ecology and preserve forests is the need of the hour”, observed the Governor of Tamil Nadu K. Rosaiah here on Saturday.

He was participating in the centenary celebrations of the Lawley Institute.

The youth should be sensitized to the need to preserve the environment and promote greenery.

Describing the mountains, great lakes, dense forests and the splendid green valleys of the Nilgiris as picturesque, he said that the pleasant and mild climatic conditions and beauty of the Blue Mountains which bear the sobriquet Queen of Hills lure tourists from India and abroad.

These aesthetic values should be safeguarded and nature preserved in its pristine form.

Adverting to the occasion, Mr. Rosaiah said that the purpose of celebrating a Golden Jubilee, a Diamond Jubilee or a Centenary is not only to turn back and look at the achievements made but also to plan ahead for the future.

Pointing out that it was a remarkable achievement for the Lawley Institute which was governed by a Trust, he said it stands as a model for other Trusts.

Lamenting that many trusts, social, charitable or any other kind are of late entangled in litigations, the Governor said that the trust which runs the Lawley Institute is a trust with a difference.

Congratulating the past and present office bearers, he observed that it was a matter of pride that the Institute is one of the very few institutions which has survived without any litigation, misappropriation and alienation.

Referring to its origin, he said that the Maharaja of Bobbili had created the trust on September 15,1911 and established it in memory of Sir Arthur Lawley, former Governor of Madras. It is in many ways unique and possibly the only club run by a Trust to provide physical and intellectual recreation. More such recreation clubs are needed to relieve stress.

The Secretary of the institute K. Krishnakumar listed the projects taken up as part of the centenary celebrations and added that the number of members now was 1108.

The Chairman, Centenary Celebrations T. Gundan welcomed the gathering. Trustee Geetha Srinivasan proposed a vote of thanks.

The Governor unveiled a plaque to mark the launch of the centenary projects and distributed welfare assistance including a cheque for Rs. 50,000 to Sathya, wife of Pandiyan, an Armed Reserve constable who died while performing acrobatics during the Republic Day celebrations here.