To celebrate the auspicious occasion of "Van Mahotsav" the NCC unit at IIT Kanpur conducted a tree plantation programme on 23 August 2003. About 150 NCC cadets assembled at the NCC complex to celebrate the Day. It commenced with a highly inspiring presentation on NCC, highlighting its objectives and achievements. All the cadets were filled with pride after viewing the presentation made by Lt Col Dilip Routray, the Commanding Officer of the unit.

Dr. Binayak Rath, Professor of Economics, IIT Kanpur was invited to give a talk to the students on tree plantation. Dr. Rath, in his lecture, emphasized that proper use of water and land resources is indispensable for sustainable development of our civilization. Secondly he explained about a project in which he had participated in Orissa which converted an entire barren land into a dense forest within 10 years. he pointed out that such endeavours were required to increase forest cover in India. He concluded the speech by urging the youth to be the "change catalysts" in the society to form healthy and green environment. He emphasized that the youth, such as NCC cadets should shoulder responsibilities to tackle social evils.

The short lecture was followed by a plantation programme. The various varieties of plants that were planted are Neem, Kesia Sevia, Kesia Alta, Jamun, Mahua, etc. Everyone present nursed a strong belief that this could be the beginning of a better, stronger, healthier India. All NCC cadets vowed that they shall be responsible for the upkeep of the respective plants during their stay at the institute.