Sehajpreet Singh Sokhal, a Class VIII student from Spring Dale Senior School in Amritsar, has won a national award from the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) for his artwork celebrating the desi kikkar tree (Vachellia nilotica, also known as babool). The competition, titled "Tree of Life competition," was organized by INTACH's Heritage Education and Communication Service (HECS) and drew nearly 12,000 entries from students across classes VII to IX nationwide.
Artwork Highlights Kikkar's Cultural Role
Sehajpreet's winning poster depicts a saint seated under the shade of a kikkar tree, with the caption in Punjabi: "Malwe De Kikkar Haithan, Sakoon Bhariyan Gallan" ("Under Malwa's kikkar trees, one finds peace and tranquillity"). The artwork emphasizes the tree's significance in Punjab's cultural and natural landscape. "It is one of the native trees of Punjab that is disappearing rapidly. As a native tree of the state, it is naturally adapted to the local climate, rainfall and hot summers. It is ecologically and culturally significant and also supports livelihoods through its role in farming," Sehajpreet explained.
Ecological and Economic Importance
The kikkar tree thrives in harsh conditions and is widely used in agroforestry. It provides fodder for livestock, and its wood is used to make agricultural implements. The tree is also a symbol of the simple, resilient life of Punjab's rural communities. Sahiljit Singh Sandhu, chairman of Spring Dale Educational Society, noted that Sehajpreet's achievement is "truly remarkable and a matter of immense pride for the school and the state of Punjab. Among the 15 students shortlisted from across the country, he is the sole representative from Punjab."
National Recognition and Educational Trip
As part of the award, Sehajpreet will participate in an educational trip to Delhi from July 8 to 12. The itinerary includes visits to heritage sites such as Humayun's Tomb, Lodhi Gardens, and the Pradhan Mantri Sangrahalaya, along with an interactive session with heritage experts. The competition required students to submit poster art depicting indigenous trees from their regions, highlighting their cultural and natural significance.
