“Planting Hope: SAS Foundation’s Green Mission with ITL Public School Under ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’”
In an inspiring effort to build a greener, healthier planet, Swavalamban Avam Swabhimaan Foundation (SAS Foundation) is proud to share the success of its recent plantation drive held at ITL Public School, Dwarka, under the nationwide campaign “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”. This initiative, a tribute to motherhood and Mother Earth, is rooted in Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visionary mission to combat climate change by encouraging every citizen to plant a tree in the name of their mother.
As environmental concerns continue to escalate globally, this campaign brings forth a simple yet powerful message: healing the Earth begins with individual action. Trees, as silent warriors, play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide, purifying the air, preventing soil erosion, and preserving biodiversity. And when planted in reverence to the nurturing figure of a mother, the symbolic value becomes even more profound.
A Community United for Nature
The drive at ITL Public School was a heartening collaboration between SAS Foundation, school authorities, volunteers, and students — a model example of community participation in sustainability.
The event was spearheaded by Ms. Jyotsana Sinha, Joint Secretary of SAS Foundation, whose steadfast commitment to environmental causes has led several impactful initiatives across the NCR region. She was joined by Mr. Jatin Yadav, an active youth volunteer and student of Lovely Professional University (LPU), Punjab, who has consistently championed environmental awareness among his peers and in his community.
Their efforts were bolstered by the wholehearted support of Principal Dr. Sudha Acharya, who, along with her team of dedicated teachers and young students, infused the event with energy, enthusiasm, and purpose.
Planting for Health and Heritage
During the drive, over 20 medicinal and herbal trees and plants were planted within the school premises. These included:
- Mehandi (Henna) – Known for its cooling properties and cultural importance in Indian traditions.
- Baheda – One of the three key ingredients in Triphala, used extensively in Ayurveda for its health benefits.
- Amaltas – A beautiful flowering tree with medicinal uses, often used as a natural purgative.
- Sohanjna (Moringa/Drumstick) – Touted as a superfood with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Lasoda – Used in traditional remedies for sore throat and cough.
- Papri – Known for its nitrogen-fixing properties that enhance soil health.
These plants were carefully chosen not just for their environmental benefit, but also for their cultural, ecological, and educational value. Students learned about the medicinal uses, growth patterns, and importance of biodiversity, fostering a sense of responsibility and curiosity.
Legacy of Green: A Continuing Partnership
This isn’t the first time SAS Foundation has partnered with ITL Public School. In fact, last year’s plantation drive at the same location witnessed the planting of over 125 trees and plants. This consistent collaboration reflects a shared vision between the NGO and the school — a vision of empowering youth to lead the green movement.
These recurring drives go beyond ceremonial planting. The school has also integrated plant care and environmental awareness into their co-curricular and eco-club activities, ensuring that the plants receive proper nurturing and students develop a long-term connection with nature.
Leading by Example
The involvement of young volunteers like Jatin Yadav adds another layer of impact to this campaign. As a student from LPU, Punjab, his presence highlights how cross-state collaboration and youth leadership are essential to the success of grassroots environmental movements. He actively engaged students during the drive, encouraging them to learn more about each plant and take responsibility for its care.
Dr. Sudha Acharya, in her address, emphasized the role of schools as incubators of change. “The values we sow today in young minds will become the forests of tomorrow. Initiatives like these not only green our spaces but also ignite environmental consciousness in future generations.”
Empowering Through Green Missions
At SAS Foundation, green campaigns like “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” are not one-time events but part of a larger environmental mission. The foundation works across sectors such as education, health, sustainability, and youth empowerment. With the backing of passionate volunteers, corporate collaborators, and visionary educators, SAS Foundation has planted thousands of trees across Delhi NCR and conducted awareness campaigns on climate change, e-waste recycling, and plastic reduction.
These efforts align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially:
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 15: Life on Land
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
By linking emotional, cultural, and environmental themes, “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” bridges the gap between awareness and action, encouraging people from all walks of life to participate.
What’s Next?
SAS Foundation plans to scale up the campaign across schools, colleges, corporate campuses, and residential societies. The Foundation will also conduct tree adoption programs, eco-literacy sessions, and digital campaigns to track the growth and impact of each tree planted.
Get Involved
We invite you to be a part of this meaningful green revolution. Whether you’re a student, teacher, parent, or professional — you can contribute by:
- Organizing a plantation drive in your community
- Volunteering with the SAS Foundation
- Donating for green infrastructure in schools
- Educating others about the benefits of native and medicinal plants
Conclusion: Growing Roots for a Greener Future
Planting a tree is more than an act of sustainability — it’s a legacy of love, a symbol of growth, and a pledge to the future. Through partnerships like the one between SAS Foundation and ITL Public School, we are not just planting trees — we are planting hope, responsibility, and a culture of care.
🌱 Let’s keep growing, together.
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