MVP's Govardhane College Wins State Vanashree Award
Nashik's Govardhane College secures second place, wins ₹75,000 cash prize

A prestigious award has been conferred upon MVP Samaj's Karmaveer Punjababa Govardhane Arts, Commerce, and Science College in Igatpuri, Nashik. The college has been awarded the second position in the 'Educational Institution (State Level)' category at the State-level Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vanashree Award for the year 2024.
The award, given by the Revenue and Forest Department of the Government of Maharashtra, comes with a cash prize of ₹75,000 and a certificate of appreciation. The final selection was made by a state-level evaluation committee chaired by the Honourable Minister (Forests) based on recommendations from the preliminary scrutiny committee.
Over the past few years, the college has undertaken various initiatives for environmental conservation, tree plantation, biodiversity, and nature protection in the Igatpuri region. Some of the notable initiatives include 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam', 'Vruksha Majha Bhauraya', 'Majhe Vruksha Majhi Janani', 'Manja-virodhi: Jakhmi Chimniche Patra', and 'Seed-ball' projects.
The college has conducted several tree plantation drives in collaboration with the Social Forestry Department, industrial companies, and local communities to keep the Igatpuri area green. These efforts have received praise from across the state, leading to the college being selected for this prestigious award.
The success is attributed to the collective efforts of the MVP Samaj institution's General Secretary Adv. Nitin Thackeray, MVP Igatpuri Taluka Director Adv. Sandeep Gulve, and the college Principal Dr Kiran Rakibe, along with the entire college family, including students, teaching staff, and non-teaching staff.
The college secured second place in the state with 78 points, after a rigorous evaluation and scoring process of hundreds of proposals from across the state. A committee visited the college to conduct a thorough inspection and assessment of the environmental initiatives implemented by the college.
This award has generated an atmosphere of joy and enthusiasm within the educational and social circles of Igatpuri and Nashik. The recognition of the college's social and environmental commitment is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire team.
The State-level Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vanashree Award is a significant recognition of the college's efforts towards environmental conservation and sustainability. The award is expected to motivate other educational institutions to follow in the footsteps of Govardhane College and undertake similar initiatives for the betterment of the environment.
In conclusion, the award is a significant achievement for the college and a matter of pride for the entire MVP Samaj institution. It highlights the importance of collective efforts and hard work towards achieving a common goal of environmental sustainability and conservation. The recognition of the college's efforts is expected to have a positive impact on the environment and the community at large, and serves as an inspiration for others to follow suit.
The award also underscores the commitment of the Government of Maharashtra towards environmental conservation and sustainability. The state government's initiatives and recognition of efforts towards environmental protection are crucial in promoting a culture of sustainability and conservation in the state.
Overall, the award is a significant milestone for the college and a testament to the power of collective efforts and dedication towards achieving a common goal. It is expected to have a positive impact on the environment and the community, and serves as an inspiration for others to follow in the footsteps of Govardhane College.