Dhamtari: A small village in Chhattisgarh's Dhamtari district is witnessing a quiet revolution as a unique initiative adopted by a couple is making a big difference in the environment of the region.
Tumanchand and Ranjita Sahu, residents of Bhainsmundi village adjacent to the Magarlod block of Dhamtari, have started a special plantation drive to aware people of the conservation and restoration of clean and natural spaces.
"Plant a tree and eat the fruit" is their slogan, which is inspiring thousands, especially school children, to plant trees and reap the benefits. In addition to planting trees, the couple promises to teach the children about the environment and the importance of trees to human survival.
“When a child enjoys a fruit, he/she not only gets nutrition but is also motivated to plant trees," says Tumanchand. “They do not need to be explained about the benefits of planting trees because children realise that trees will give them fruits,” he says.
Tumanchand and Ranjita Sahu have planted more than 1,100 fruit trees in their field. They care for these trees throughout the year and offer the fruits free of charge to schools and social organisations. The couple has distributed over 17,000 kg of guavas to kids, passersby, and institutions.
The couple vowed that they would not just plant trees but build a better society under the spirit of “Seva Param Dharma (service to mankind is the best form of worship).” They say it's their sole objective, as they are inspired by the philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, believing that “saving the environment is among the top duties of humans.”.
“It is our responsibility to make our future generation aware of the environment and its importance,” Sahu said.
Their efforts and dedication to the environment have invited praise and support from locals and leaders. “There are very few people in our society like the Sahu couple who think in this direction. They should be honoured for their work,” says Omkar Sahu, MLA of Dhamtari.
Senior journalist Abhishek Pandey says that the current situation of the environment indicates that after the next hundred years, people will crave water and air. “Our next generation may face a lot of difficulty. Those who have seen the foresight have already started balancing the environment. The work of Tumanchand and Ranjita Sahu is the result of foresight,” he says.
“Plant a tree and eat the fruit” is not just a simple slogan but a strong message to make a significant impact, says Tallinpuri Goswami, a nature lover. “The step taken by the Sahu couple for environmental preservation is very commendable. Deforestation is taking a toll on our society, and their efforts are a beacon of hope for a better future,” he adds.
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