Bhubaneswar, Aug 3: Delivering a strong message that trees are humanity's true friends, villagers and journalists came together to celebrate Friendship Day by planting saplings and pledging to protect them at Panchagaon on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar on Sunday.

The plantation drive was jointly organised by Prameya, News7, Suma Real Media Private Limited (SRMPL), Siksha 'O' Anusandhan (SOA), and the residents of Panchagaon under Jamukoli Gram Panchayat. The programme was held at Maa Mangala Park near the Mousi Maa Temple at the foothills of Labanagiri.

A variety of fruit, flower and spice saplings, including coconut, bay leaf, champak, shami, nag champa, nutmeg, cardamom and cinnamon, were planted during the campaign to promote environmental conservation and biodiversity.

The initiative is part of an ongoing state-wide plantation campaign inspired by SOA Founder President Prof. (Dr.) Manojranjan Nayak and led by Prameya and News7 Group Editor Gopal Krishna Mohapatra. The campaign has now entered its fifth phase.

Launching the programme by planting the first coconut sapling, Prameya News Editor Dhirendra Narayan Mishra said the campaign aims not only to plant trees but also to ensure their long-term protection with active participation from local communities. He urged villagers across Odisha to safeguard every sapling planted under the initiative.

Speaking on the occasion, social worker and Maa Mangala Development Council chief Lingaraj Patra stressed that tree plantation should become a year-round activity rather than being limited to special occasions. He appealed to every individual to plant at least ten trees and nurture them.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from local residents, journalists, environmental enthusiasts and social workers. Young nature lover Soumyashree drew special appreciation after planting a sapling, symbolising the importance of involving children in environmental conservation efforts. The organisers said the campaign will continue across Odisha throughout the year to encourage a greener and healthier future.