PLANTATION DRIVE AT KHALISHAKOTA HIGHER SECONDARY SSCHOOL

Plantation Drive at Khalishakota Higher Secondary School, Birati

Today was a perfect monsoon Saturday, with cloudy skies, gentle showers, occasional bursts of rain, and brief glimpses of sunshine. On such a beautiful day, we gathered at Khalishakota Higher Secondary School in Birati for another plantation drive.

We always make it a priority to plant trees in protected areas and ensure that the saplings receive the care they need to survive and grow. Together with the students, we planted a variety of trees, including Custard Apple, Mango, Jamun, Litchi, Ashphal, Amaltas, Pomegranate, and several others.

Nearly 100 saplings were planted, including:

• Custard Apple A sweet, creamy fruit with soft white pulp and a distinctive knobbly green skin. It is enjoyed for its rich flavour and naturally sweet taste.
• Mango Known as the king of fruits, mangoes are loved for their juicy flesh, sweet flavour, and tropical aroma. The trees provide dense shade and delicious seasonal fruit.
• Jamun A deep purple seasonal fruit with a tangy, slightly astringent taste. Its trees offer good shade and attract birds and other wildlife.
• Litchi A small, juicy fruit with translucent white flesh and a sweet, fragrant flavour. Litchi trees bear clusters of fruit during the summer months.
• Ashphal A lesser-known fruit-bearing tree valued for its edible fruits and regional significance. Its characteristics and fruit varieties may vary depending on the local species referred to by this name.
• Amaltas A beautiful ornamental tree known for its long, cascading clusters of bright yellow flowers. It adds a vibrant splash of colour to the landscape, especially during summer.
• Pomegranate A fruit-bearing plant known for its round fruits filled with juicy, ruby-red seeds. It is valued for its refreshing sweet-tart flavour and ornamental appeal.

One of the highlights of the day was everyone gathering beneath the school's mature Jamun tree to pick and enjoy its fresh fruits. It was another memorable day spent celebrating nature, learning together, and contributing to a greener future.

As part of the annual Van Mahotsav celebrations, tree plantation programs are being organized at many locations during the monsoon. If you are interested, you too can become a part of this movement. During Forest Week, the Forest Department distributes free saplings through its local offices. You can collect these saplings, plant them in protected locations, and help expand the green cover in your community.

You are also welcome to participate in the plantation programs organized by Gachher Katha. Those interested in joining or supporting the initiative may contact the group's administrators for further information.