Gift a Plant: In a groundbreaking move towards environmental sustainability, three prominent Odisha Ministers have joined hands with the Bakul Foundation to encourage citizens to embrace the practice of gifting plants instead of flower bouquets this New Year. The initiative, a vital part of the foundation’s long-standing “My Tree Campaign,” seeks to blend climate action with cultural traditions, offering a meaningful way to celebrate special occasions.
At a press conference organized by the Bakul Foundation, its founder Sujit Mahapatra shared the inspiring 15-year journey of the campaign, which has urged thousands to form emotional connections with trees by planting them during milestones like birthdays, weddings, and festivals.
“If even 1% of the lakhs of flower bouquets exchanged in Odisha were replaced with plants, it could result in thousands of trees being planted,” said Mahapatra. “This simple shift can make a significant impact on environmental conservation.”
Ministers Back the Movement with Personal Touches
Prithviraj Harichandan- Minister for Law, Works, and Excise, applauded the Bakul Foundation’s efforts, noting its vital role in driving grassroots climate action. Highlighting the eco-friendly strides made by his department—such as using recycled plastic in road construction and replanting mature trees—Harichandan shared a heartfelt story of planting a tree in memory of his late brother-in-law.
“This personal act symbolizes the deep emotional and environmental value of tree planting,” he reflected, encouraging others to adopt the practice.
Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia- Minister for Forest, Environment & Climate Change, and Labour, underscored the transformative potential of such citizen-led movements, which often achieve greater impact than government programs. Emphasizing Odisha’s unique biodiversity, Singhkhuntia called for collaborative efforts to restore ecological balance by 2036. To lead by example, he announced his plan to plant a tree with his son on his upcoming birthday.
Suryabanshi Suraj- Minister for Odia Language, Literature & Culture, Higher Education, and Sports & Youth Services, tied the initiative to Odisha’s cultural and spiritual roots. Citing the veneration of trees in Sanatana Dharma and the symbolic importance of Lord Jagannath’s “Daaru Debata” (wooden deity), Suraj highlighted tree plantation as a sacred and cultural act.
“The collective advocacy of three key Ministers for this cause reflects a unified call for action,” Suraj stated, urging people to make gifting plants a part of their celebrations.
A Symbolic Call to Action
The press conference concluded with a poignant gesture: “Tree Man” Dedi Loku, the green superhero of the Kui language, presented plants to the Ministers. This symbolic act underscored the campaign’s message of environmental consciousness.
In their concluding appeal, the Ministers urged citizens to embrace this simple yet impactful initiative, beginning the New Year with a commitment to sustainability.
“This is more than a campaign,” said Mahapatra. “It’s a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect and nurture the environment, ensuring a greener and healthier future for generations to come.”
As Odisha gears up for 2024, this initiative stands as a shining example of how collective efforts—rooted in culture and community—can spark meaningful change for the planet.
