Retiring scientist gifts 34 trees to University

Hisar, May 1 (UNI) A retiring scientist of Haryana Agricultural University (HAU) has given a unique parting gift to the University in the form of 34 trees.

Prof Kuldip Singh Dhindsa of the Bio-Chemistry department retired from university service yesterday after rendering 34 years of meritorious service. He left behind a foilage of green trees to remind the students and the university faculty to love and preserve nature.

''The planting of 34 trees was just a conicidence and has nothing to do with my years in service,'' he said while talking to the students.

Single-handedly he took up the work of planting trees about five years ago outside his official residence on the campus. On his retirement he was proud of handing over this 'green treasure' to the residents of the campus.

This 'green gift' will be remembered for a long time on the campus and would remind all of Dr Dhindsa. ''Trees are a must to save and prolong life on this planet apart from their other natural benefits,'' he said while bidding farewell to the students.

''These trees have been my silent companion in my solitude. Every person must plant at least one tree for a better environment,'' he said.

Honoured both nationally and internationally for his research in bio-chemistry, Dr Dhindsa wants the students, teachers and employees of the university to contribute at least one tree before leaving the varsity.

Dr Dhindsa declared that he would return every year to the campus during the summers to water the trees and take care of their nourishment as these trees were like his ''own children and part of his family''.

Emotionally moved departing scientist prayed for the long life of the trees and bid a tearful adieu by tying 'rakhis' around each tree.

''Being a son of a farmer I could not think of a better gift for this institution where I spent 34 years,'' he added.

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