The Academy pledges 500 saplings towards state mega plantation drive

A month after World Environment Day, the Telangana state government, in partnership with the Hyderabad Software Enterprises Associations (HYSEA), CII and several other local organisations, associations, institutions, resorts and schools – including the Aga Khan Academy Hyderabad – have scheduled a massive plantation drive named Haritha Haaram on 7 July 2016. Its objective is to reverse the decline of green cover of the state and enhance biodiversity by planting 25 lakh saplings on a single day.

The Academy was honored to be present at the first meeting of the task force for Haritha Haraam a few weeks ago, as one of 20 key participants in the mega plantation drive. We have pledged to plant approximately 500 saplings in and around the campus on 7 July. Prior to that, we will be attending orientation workshops on proper planting techniques and sourcing native species. The plants will be maintained by the students as part of their CAS activities.

CII has agreed to help the government implement this initiative by encouraging its members to actively participate in the plantation drive through assisting with planning, preparation and plantation. Data on available areas for plantation, estimated number of trees that can be planted within the identified areas, and the GPS coordinates of these marked places will be provided by CII members, which will then be compiled by CII and shared with the government.

It is understood that not only shall saplings be planted but their survival ensured, too. As an evolving ‘green school’, the Academy is in close collaboration with CII to ensure that the school’s policies and practices are recognised by Indian ratings systems as being environmentally friendly and sustainable.

Taking part in Haritha Haaram highlights the the Academy’s commitment to the environment not just within its premises, but towards a more sustainable future.