Gadag (Karnataka): In a unique initiative, the Gadag Forest Department in Karnataka is facilitating the 'adoption' of trees, the funds collected through which will help the department face the financial crunch due to the prevailing COVID-19 situation.
As part of the initiative, people will now be able to adopt a tree at the hugely popular Saalumarada Thimmakka Tree Park in Gadag, by paying a sum of Rs 500.
Once the sapling is planted by the sponsor, they will be looked after by the government until they grow into large trees.
According to reports, thousands of trees can be grown in the five-acre area.
The donors can choose their desired nameplate that will be put up in front of the plant they adopt. In addition, the department will also issue certificates to the adopter - carrying the tree number, breed and the name given by the donor.
The first goal of the department is to plant 5,000 saplings under the adoption scheme and raise sufficient money from the sponsors.
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With all tourist spots suffering due to the COVID-19 situation, even the Gadag Forest Department suffered financial losses. It was finding it difficult to make payments to contract-based labourers, and hence came up with this plan.
Apart from the financial aspect, the initiative also aims to promote forest growth and raise awareness among the people.
