Naihati New Life Society (NNLS) had distributed 50000 saplings at free of cost to the villagers of Barrackpore I Block. The aim of this project was to promote sustainable agriculture and increase green cover across the region by distributing 50,000 saplings of four fruit-bearing trees, namely Jackfruit, Mango, Banana, and Papaya. This report outlines the distribution process, target areas, challenges faced, and the anticipated positive impact on the environment and local communities.
The sapling distribution campaign was meticulously planned and executed by NNLS volunteers in support of Torrento Calcutta Foundation – Canada. The process can be divided into the following key steps:
- Selection of Saplings: High-quality saplings of Jackfruit, Mango, Banana, and Papaya were sourced from local nurseries and approved suppliers to ensure their viability and suitability for the target regions.
- Target Areas: NNLS identified several regions with low tree cover and a favourable climate for fruit trees. These areas were prioritized based on their ecological significance and potential benefits to the surrounding communities.
- Community Engagement: Local communities were actively involved in the planning process to ensure the distribution aligned with their needs and preferences. Awareness campaigns were conducted to educate people about the importance of planting fruit trees for food security and environmental sustainability.
- Distribution Events: The actual distribution events were held in various locations across the identified regions. Each event was organized with the help of local volunteers, and community members were encouraged to actively participate in the planting process.
- Follow-up and Monitoring: NNLS established a post-distribution monitoring system to track the growth and survival rates of the distributed saplings. Local volunteers and partner organizations played a crucial role in this ongoing monitoring process.
The sapling distribution initiative is expected to have several positive impacts:
- Environmental Benefits: The 50,000 fruit trees will significantly contribute to increasing green cover, reducing carbon emissions, and mitigating the effects of climate change.
- Biodiversity Enhancement: The diverse range of fruit trees will attract various species of birds and insects, promoting biodiversity in the region.
- Food Security: Once mature, the fruit-bearing trees will provide a sustainable source of nutrition and income for local communities, improving food security.
- Community Empowerment: The active involvement of local communities in the planting process fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility for the environment.
Conclusion: The distribution of 50,000 saplings of Jackfruit, Mango, Banana, and Papaya by NNLS and Torrento Calcutta Foundation (TCF) has been a successful step towards a greener and more sustainable future. By actively engaging communities and promoting biodiversity and food security, the initiative stands as a testament to the power of collective action in environmental conservation. NNLS will continue to monitor and support the growth of these trees, ensuring their lasting impact on the environment and the well-being of local communities.
