Bhubaneswar, Dec 29: In a significant push for environmental sustainability, three prominent Odisha Ministers have appealed to the public to embrace the practice of gifting plants instead of flower bouquets during New Year celebrations. The initiative, championed by the Bakul Foundation, aims to integrate climate action into cultural traditions.
The appeal was made during a press conference organised by the Bakul Foundation, where its founder, Sujit Mahapatra, shared the inspiring 15-year journey of the "My Tree Campaign." The campaign encourages individuals to form meaningful connections with trees by planting them during special occasions like birthdays, weddings, and festivals.
Highlighting the potential impact of the movement, Mahapatra stated, “If even 1% of the lakhs of flower bouquets exchanged in Odisha were replaced with plants, it could lead to thousands of trees being planted, contributing significantly to environmental conservation.”
Ministers Back the Movement
Prithviraj Harichandan, Minister for Law, Works, and Excise, praised the Bakul Foundation’s efforts in driving climate action. He outlined the eco-friendly initiatives undertaken by the Works Department, such as using recycled plastic in road construction and replanting mature trees where necessary.
Harichandan shared a personal anecdote about planting a tree in memory of his late brother-in-law, reflecting the emotional and symbolic value of such acts.
Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia, Minister for Forest, Environment & Climate Change, and Labour, lauded the foundation for igniting a potential cultural revolution. He stressed that grassroots movements like these often surpass government programmes in impact.
Singhkhuntia highlighted Odisha’s rich biodiversity and called for collective efforts to restore its ecological balance by 2036. Setting an example, he announced his plan to plant a tree with his son on his birthday, reinforcing the personal and cultural importance of tree plantation.
Suryabanshi Suraj, Minister for Odia Language, Literature & Culture, Higher Education, and Sports & Youth Services, linked the initiative to Odisha’s cultural and spiritual heritage. He cited the reverence for trees in Sanatana Dharma and Lord Jagannath’s association with “Daaru Debata” (wooden deity), positioning tree plantation as a sacred act.
Suraj emphasised the significance of having three key Ministers advocate for this cause, reinforcing the need for collective action.
Symbolic Gesture and Appeal
The press conference concluded with “Tree Man” Dedi Loku, the green superhero of the Kui language, gifting plants to the Ministers as a symbolic gesture.
The Ministers collectively urged citizens to join this movement and begin the New Year by gifting plants, promoting sustainability and environmental consciousness.
This initiative is not just a call to action but a reminder of the shared responsibility to protect and nurture the environment, ensuring a greener and healthier future for generations to come.
