Bettiah: A medical representative and local boy, Manoj Kumar (48), has planted thousands of saplings in the past decade or so as part of a mission to save the planet from destruction.
Manoj’s campaign started in 2007 with the commemoration of the 150th anniversary of India’s first war of independence in 1857, by coining a slogan of “plant, planet and patriotism”.
His self-funded green campaign was once opposed by his family.
“We dedicate our services to freedom fighters, martyrs and the armed forces to promote patriotism, and make people aware of how to protect the environment for the coming generations,” says Manoj.
According to the records made available to the District Rural Development Authority (DRDA), Manoj had planted 1,725 saplings by 2010. Unofficial reports put the tally at 2,500 in subsequent years.
He, however, calls upon everyone to join this noble cause which, in turn, has been reciprocated by many, including chief minister Nitish Kumar, among many political and apolitical personalities. Nitish Kumar had given him a note of thanks after planting a sapling in West Champaran.
A President’s Medal recipient and ex-principal of Rajkiya Utkaramit Madhya Vidhyalay, Mohan Shrivastava, who supports Manoj, finds the tree plantation as a service rendered to humanity.
“I have taken this call because we cannot deny our accountability towards humanity. I truly believe that there cannot be a better way than serving humanity by planting saplings,” says Shrivastava, having already planted over two dozen saplings at Valmikinagar in West Champaran.
Ask 32-year-old Abhijeet Pandey and he will tell why he took part in the drive.
“It’s like a systematic investment plan for me and rich dividends are bound to percolate down to future generations. I may or I may not be around. India needs to do more and so do you and I,” Pandey says.
Valmikinagar Tiger Reserve (VTR) chief conservator S. Chandrasekhar has his own reasons.
“Being associated with forests, we favour plantations and preservation of environment. I lost no time to grab the offer when it comes to such noble cause,” he says.
Manoj refuses to say how much he has spent on his campaign. “When the aim is noble, means will follow,” he says. “Our aim is a healthy, wealthy nation and earth.”
Article Source: The Telegraph India