In order to express love, affection and harmony towards nature and nation, the Department of Botany, University of Jammu, today organized a unique ceremony on the eve of 'Raksha Bandhan' wherein the traditional sacred and protective threads 'Rakhis' were tied to the trees by the students, research scholars and the faculty members. Prior to the event, organized in the picturesque Botanical Garden of the University, students, research scholars, non-teaching and teaching faculty of the Department gathered in front of the Department Building holding tricolours in their hands and marched towards the garden. The Tricolour Rally was organized to honour this year’s Independence Day under the Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav and symbolized National Integrity. During the celebration, sacred threads were tied by the participants to some unique plants including sacred Tulsi, historic Magnolia, Sandalwood, Rudraaksh, Mahua, Putranjiva, Peepal, Chandani, Sita-Ashok, Haarshringaar, Paarijaat, etc. The participants while tying the Rakhis, also took a pledge to protect and conserve nature and its bounties to mitigate the challenges of climate change for a healthier future. Speaking on the relevance of such green concerns, Prof. Yash Pal Sharma said that almost all the festivals in society take humans towards nature. The existence of life on earth is because of the plants which are also the ultimate source of everything including fresh air for other creatures, therefore must be considered at every step of life. Earlier, Prof Veenu Kaul, Head, Department of Botany, informed the nature lovers that presently it's imperative and an ardent need that we show special friendliness and affection towards our 'Natural Oxygen Generators' and food and shelter providers. Others, who were present on the occasion, include Prof Namrata Sharma, Prof. Susheel Verma, Dr Sikander Pal, Dr Harish Chander, Dr Geeta, Dr. Skarma, Dr. Madhu, Dr. Sajan Thakur, research scholars, MSc students, non-teaching faculty and garden staff of the Department.