SCERT asks schools to launch plantation drive

In a bid to promote environmental awareness and sustainable living, the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) has asked schools across the state to start a large-scale plantation campaign.

The campaign will be started under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative.

In a letter to all school heads, the SCERT has issued fresh guidelines, directing the schools to plant at least 10 saplings within or around their campuses.

The guidelines call for planting a diverse mix of plant species, including ornamental, flowering, evergreen and medicinal plants such as neem, peepal, amla and tulsi. To strengthen student involvement, schools have been advised to maintain detailed record of each sapling, including its botanical name, local name, and even a pet name for identification and bonding.

The campaign has been integrated into the Eco Clubs for India’s Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) movement, with schools required to upload geo-tagged photographs and documentation of each planted tree on the national portal. Records must include the species name, plantation date, location and student participation.

The Forest Department will provide saplings free of cost.