Human Interest

PM Modi Plants Kadamb Sapling Gifted by King Charles III on His 75th Birthday


Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, by Team Allycaral

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked his 75th birthday with a deeply symbolic gesture—planting a Kadamb sapling gifted to him by British King Charles III. The event took place at Modi’s official residence on Friday and was in line with his ongoing environmental initiative, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, which encourages citizens to plant a tree as a tribute to their mother.

The British High Commission in India had earlier announced the gift on September 17, stating that it was inspired by Modi’s call for environmental stewardship. According to the Commission, the gesture reflects the shared commitment of King Charles III and Prime Minister Modi to promoting sustainability and environmental conservation across global platforms.

The act also underscores the deepening partnership between the United Kingdom and India, particularly in the area of climate and clean energy. During his official visit to Britain in July, Prime Minister Modi had presented a Sonoma tree to King Charles III as part of the same initiative. The reciprocal nature of these symbolic gifts highlights a growing collaboration that transcends traditional diplomacy.

An official video released by the government showed PM Modi planting the sapling, emphasizing the strong personal and political significance of the moment. The British High Commission reaffirmed that environmental cooperation remains a key pillar of the UK-India partnership, as outlined in the “Vision 2035” roadmap jointly developed by the two Prime Ministers.

As the world faces the growing challenges of climate change, such initiatives—both symbolic and practical—demonstrate the potential of global partnerships rooted in mutual respect and shared values. The Kadamb sapling now stands not just as a birthday gift, but as a living testament to a vision for a greener, more sustainable future.

EduConnect

Sarvodaya High School Plants Seeds of Change with Green Drive in Collaboration with Forest Department


Curchorem, Goa | July 30, 2025 — Sarvodaya Educational Society’s High School in Curchorem, Quepem Taluka, took a meaningful step towards environmental action through a collaborative Green Drive with the Forest & Marine Department, South Goa District.

Held on the school grounds, the initiative featured sapling distribution, student participation, tree-themed performances, and awareness sessions under the powerful banner “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam.” The event not only emphasized the importance of planting trees but also nurturing them as a long-term responsibility.

Highlights of the Day:

  • Eco Club President Vedang Labhor opened the program, recounting past eco-initiatives and stressing continued collaboration for a sustainable future.
  • Headmistress Tr. Shubha Phal Dessai expressed gratitude to Forest Range Officers Rajesh Naik, Shakshi Sulesh Naik, Krupashak Fotto, and their team for their presence and guidance.
  • A special talk by Forest Officer Mr. Rajesh Naik enlightened Std. 6 and 7 students on the ecological and societal benefits of trees.
  • The school choral group performed tree-themed songs, adding a soulful layer to the celebration.
  • A total of 815 saplings were distributed to students and teachers, who then took a collective pledge to nurture the plants and ensure their survival.
  • Planting activities were conducted within the school premises, led by students and teachers, reinforcing the message of action and accountability.

The program was compered by Eco Club Coordinator Tr. Maria Estela Fernandes, with support from Coordinators Hema Naik, Roycee Fernandes, and the entire Eco Club team.

“Our students are the future, and every sapling planted today is a promise for tomorrow,” said Headmistress Mrs. Shubha Phal Dessai.

Sarvodaya’s Green Drive is a shining example of how youth-led, community-backed environmental action can foster long-term change. Through education, hands-on activity, and inter-departmental collaboration, the school continues to empower the next generation of environmental stewards.

EduConnect

St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa NSS unit Commemorates Plantation Drive – “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0”


The NSS Unit of St. Xavier’s College – Mapusa, organized a plantation drive beginning on on 30th June 2025 until 7th July 2025 commemorating the initiative “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0”, which encouraged NSS volunteers to plant a sapling in honour of their mothers.

The event began with a brief introduction by the NSS Chief Programme Officer, Dr. Rheane Da Silva who highlighted the significance of the campaign and its message of environmental responsibility and gratitude toward motherhood. The plantation drive was formally inaugurated by the dignitaries of the college. The first sapling was planted by the Administrator, Rev. Fr. Tony Salema, followed by Acting Principal, Ms. Ursula Barreto. The Vice Principal, Prof. Filipe Rodrigues e Melo, carried out the third plantation. Guest of Honour, Mr. Vincy Quatros, a renowned Konkani writer planted a sapling, expressing his support for the cause. Dr.Raina of GVM’s Ponda enthusiastically participated in the plantation drive.

The Programme Officers, Dr. Rheane Da Silva, Mr. Sujay Rane and Mr. Rahul Naik along with the college gardeners Mr. Satish and Mr. Dessai alongside 35 NSS volunteers planted the saplings with active enthusiasm. In total, 70 saplings were planted during the drive. The sapling varieties included Badam (Almond), Gulmohar, Mango, Jackfruit, Cashew, Awla, Techoma and other native species suitable for the terrain.

The plantation was carried out in specific areas of the campus, including the periphery of the college sports ground and along the pathways to encourage shade in the future. These locations were selected to ensure the long-term visibility and the long term impact of trees to maintain a cooler temperature on campus.

To ensure proper maintenance, each sapling has been assigned to a dedicated pair of NSS volunteers who will take care of the plants throughout the year. The plantation drive concluded successfully, marking a meaningful contribution to both environmental preservation and the emotional spirit behind the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0” initiative.

EduConnect

🌍 PM SHRI GHS Morpirla Celebrates World Environment Day 2025


One Mission – End Plastic Pollution

On the occasion of World Environment Day 2025, PM SHRI GHS Morpirla united under the global theme “One Mission – End Plastic Pollution”, emphasizing the urgent need to tackle the escalating environmental, social, economic, and health risks posed by plastic waste.

The celebration was not just a one-day event—it was a call to action for every student, teacher, and community member to commit to a more sustainable future. The school organized a series of engaging and meaningful activities to promote environmental awareness, sustainability, and responsible lifestyle choices among the youth.


🌿 Highlights of the Celebration

🌳 Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0 Campaign Launch

In a heartwarming initiative, the school launched the second edition of “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”, encouraging students to plant a tree in honor of their mothers. This symbolic act beautifully connected the idea of nurturing nature with the love and respect for one’s mother. Students eagerly took part in the Tree Plantation Drive, planting saplings across the school campus and pledging to take care of them.

🐦 Bird Feeder Craft Activity

In a creative effort to support biodiversity, students made eco-friendly bird feeders using recycled materials. These feeders will be placed around the campus and at students’ homes to provide food and shelter for local bird species, fostering a sense of responsibility towards even the smallest creatures in our ecosystem.

🎨 Poster Making Competition

A poster-making competition was held where students showcased their artistic skills and environmental awareness. The posters depicted powerful messages around ending plastic pollution, conserving nature, and building a sustainable world. This activity sparked important conversations about environmental issues among students.

💃 Dance Performance – “Reduce Plastic”

Through an energetic and expressive dance performance, students highlighted the importance of reducing plastic consumption. The performance creatively illustrated the consequences of plastic pollution and inspired the audience to adopt eco-friendly alternatives in their daily lives.

🎵 Musical Tribute – “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”

Adding a melodious touch to the celebration, students sang a beautiful song dedicated to the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign. The lyrics emphasized the importance of planting trees, conserving nature, and building a greener planet for future generations.


🌱 A Step Toward Sustainable Living

Throughout the event, emphasis was placed on the broader environmental challenges including climate change, ecosystem degradation, and unsustainable resource use. Discussions and activities helped students understand the interconnectedness of these issues and the role they can play in mitigating them.

The celebration successfully ignited a spark of environmental consciousness among students and staff. By combining education, creativity, and action, PM SHRI GHS Morpirla continues to nurture environmentally responsible citizens and pave the way for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future.