|| Aziz Al Zaman, Rangpur: A tree-planting and sapling distribution programme was held in Rangpur on Monday to mark the 82nd birthday of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.The programme was organised by the Women’s Wing of the Rangpur Metropolitan BNP’s Ward No. 22 at Kusumbag Kindergarten School in the Babukha area of the city.Rangpur Metropolitan Women’s Wing General Secretary Arzana Begum attended the programme as the chief guest. She planted trees and distributed saplings among local residents and participants.Speaking on the occasion, Arzana Begum said, “We have taken the initiative to plant trees to mark Begum Khaleda Zia’s birthday because trees play a vital role in maintaining environmental balance and are closely connected with human life and livelihoods.”She urged everyone to plant at least one tree and take responsibility for its proper care and protection.The head teacher of Kusumbag Kindergarten School said tree-planting programmes are important for developing a sense of environmental responsibility among students. Merely planting trees is not enough, he said, adding that the planted saplings must be regularly cared for and protected.He further said such initiatives would help raise environmental awareness among students as well as local people.Speakers at the programme stressed that trees play an important role in protecting human life and the environment. They called upon people from all sections of society to come forward to plant more trees and ensure their proper maintenance and conservation.A number of Women’s Wing leaders and activists, along with BNP leaders and activists from different levels, participated in the programme. Saplings of various species were planted and distributed among the participants.The organisers also called for continued tree-planting initiatives to help protect the environment and maintain ecological balance.