Green Pledge at the 77th Van Mahotsav: Tree Plantation Drive Spreads the Message of Environmental Conservation at Ramgarh Gandabahali

Sinapali, July 7 With a vision to strengthen the bond between humans and nature and to build a greener future for the coming generations, the 77th Van Mahotsav–2026 was celebrated with great enthusiasm, public participation, and environmental commitment at Ramgarh Gandabahali under the Sinapali Forest Range. The programme was organized by the Khariar Forest Division under the aegis of the Department of Forest, Environment and Climate Change, Government of Odisha, inspiring people to take collective responsibility for protecting nature. Addressing the gathering as the Chief Guest, ACF Prashnajit Nayak emphasized that trees are not only essential for maintaining ecological balance but also form the very foundation of human existence. He urged every citizen to plant at least one tree and nurture it with care, stating that such collective efforts would ensure a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future. The keynote speaker, Bhagaban Chalan, Headmaster of Gandabahali Shishu Vidyamandir, highlighted the growing challenges posed by climate change. He remarked that tree plantation alone is not enough; every sapling must be protected and nurtured like a family member. His inspiring message encouraged students and local residents to become active guardians of the environment. Among the distinguished guests were Subrata Thakur, Sarpanch Kaushalya Meher of Gandabahali Gram Panchayat, Jagannath Sethi, Headmaster of Gandabahali Panchayat High School, Gunadhar Meher, and Sadananda Sunani. They stressed the importance of forest conservation, biodiversity protection, and active public participation in safeguarding the environment. Sinapali Ranger Kameswar Tandi successfully coordinated the programme, while Mahadev Bandichhor efficiently conducted the proceedings. Forest officials and staff, including Kandarpa Sunani, Ramaranjan Rout, and Sameer Ranjan Thakur, extended active support to the tree plantation campaign. The programme concluded with a large-scale plantation drive involving students of Gandabahali Shishu Vidyamandir and Panchayat High School, local public representatives, and villagers. Together, they took a collective pledge to protect nature and preserve the environment. Carrying the message that “A Green Environment is the Foundation of a Healthy Life,” the event emerged as an inspiring example of environmental awareness, community participation, and commitment towards a sustainable future.