Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 05 August 2024
In a remarkable display of collective commitment to environmental sustainability, a large-scale neem plantation drive, dubbed the ‘Arista Amrit Sarovar Project,’ has been organized across the Amrit Sarovar sites in the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The initiative, directed by the Chief Secretary of A&N Administration, underscores the region’s dedication to enhancing green cover and promoting ecological balance.
The mass plantation drive, undertaken across all districts under the guidance of the Secretary (Rural Development), is a testament to the concerted efforts of the Rural Development Department of A&N Administration and the MGNREGA team. The drive has seen active participation from a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including local villagers, Pradhans of respective Gram Panchayats, other PRI members, Panchayat Secretaries, and government officials from departments like Revenue, Forest, Agriculture, and Police. Notably, the Assistant Commissioner of Rangat Sub-Division participated in the neem plantation drive around Amrit Sarovar of Gram Panchayat Parnasala.
This initiative highlights significant community effort and exemplifies the power of collaboration in advancing environmental goals. By planting neem trees, the program aims to conserve local biodiversity and promote sustainable development. Neem, known as ‘Arista’ in Sanskrit meaning ‘perfect, complete, and imperishable,’ has shown remarkable potential in environmental conservation, pest management, and medicine.
The drive is also in line with the Government of India’s directive to conduct mass plantation drives as part of the upcoming Independence Day celebrations, further emphasising the nation’s commitment to environmental sustainability.