| CS appreciated the efforts of BSI for plant conservation of the Islands & emphasized on public accessibility and products development for commercialization |
Sri Vijaya Puram, July 21: Botanical Survey of India, organized Mass Tree plantation Drive and Awareness Rally on the theme “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” as a part of celebration of “76th Van Mahotsav” to create awareness on the importance of trees for a greener and healthier planet (Earth) on 20.07.2025. The programme begins with an awareness rally flag off by Chief Guest Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, Chief Secretary, A & N Administration, along with special guest PCCF Dr. Sanjay Kumar Sinha, Department of Environment & Forests followed by Mass tree plantation drive with plantation of native tree species (Rudraksha Tree Sapling) of Islands at Dhanikhari Experimental Garden-cum-Arboretum. Secretary (Agriculture), A & N Administration, Mrs. Pallavi Sarkar also planted the sapling of Rudraksha Tree.
The Chief Secretary interacted with students of Nature Camp & NCC Cadets from JNRM, who participated in the awareness rally and inspired them in emphasizing the role of collective responsibility in preserving biodiversity and enhancing green cover and disseminating scientific information to the general public. The rally started from the Botanical Garden and through various residential areas and ended at Tsunami Shelter, Nayashahar, and distributed fruiting tree saplings specially Kokum, Kattaphal, Mango and others.
The Chief Secretary appreciated the efforts of BSI for plant conservation and stressed the need for community participation in preserving nature and discussed the immense potential for sustainable commercialization of plant resources like cinnamon, vanilla and other economically important wild fruits, species etc.
During the programme, officials from the Department of Environment & Forests, Mr. Suraj Singh IFS, Mr. Sandeep D Behra, IFS, and Mr. A. C. Tilak were present. Officials from various organizations attended the program, including Regional Head, Anthropological Survey of India, Faculties from JNRM, Pondicherry University Campus, RARI (Ayush), and local residents actively participated and planted endangered Jurassic time tree species (Cycas).
The programme was initiated with a welcome address by Addl. Director & Regional Head, Dr. Lal Singh. Dr. Singh briefed about the role of BSI in survey, documentation of plant wealth in these Islands and their conservation status during discussion with the Chief Secretary & PCCF. The event concluded with tree plantation and guided walk through different conservatory sections established at BSI Garden, Nayashshar.
