Environment/Science
Environment/Science
Plant more trees to create oxygen bank urges minister on World Forest Day

Just Earth News 22 Mar 2016, 06:28 am Print

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New Delhi, Mar 21 (IBNS) The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, in collaboration with Department of Forest and Wildlife of Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi, celebrated the International Day of Forest on Monday at the Asola Bhatti Wildlife sanctuary.

Emphasising the need to appreciate the true value of forest in the growth and development of India, Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Prakash Javadekar, said that every person must plant at least 10-15 trees during one’s lifetime and care for the trees, so that trees can create an ‘Oxygen Bank’. 
 
He added that just as money is deposited in banks, each person must plant one tree after every five years to create the fixed deposit of an ‘Oxygen Bank’. 
 
The minister pointed out that one change that has been brought about in plantation of trees in nurseries -- plants that attain a height of up to six feet are planted to ensure a high survival rate. 
 
The Minister said that students are the agents of change, as it is the students who can nurture and enhance the sensitivity towards environment. 
 
Speaking on the occasion, Minister of Environment and Forest of Delhi government, Imran Hussain said that the Delhi government will spare no effort to make Delhi more green. 
 
Javadekar and Hussain also planted trees on the occasion and gave away prizes to the children. 
 
Javadekar also released a Heritage Map on the occasion. 
 
School children from schools around Asola Bhatti sanctuary, presented a street play (nukkad natak) highlighting the exploitation of earth. The school children had also put up an exhibition to mark the occasion. 
 
This year’s theme of International Day of Forest is ‘Forest and Water’ to raise awareness about how forests are the key of the planet’s supply of fresh water is essential for life. 
 
A.K Shukla, Chief Conservator of Forests, Delhi government, gave the vote of thanks.