Mangalore Diocese

ICYM Shirthady Unit organizes - “Vanamahotsava 2018”

29th July, 2018 : Inspired by the popular saying — "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now", ICYM Shirthady Unit organized tree plantation ceremony - “Vanamahotsava 2018” on Sunday 29th July 2018 at 9:30 AM.

The Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Francis Crasta, Deputy Range Forest Officer (DRFO) Mr. Chandrakanth V. Pol, Parish Council Vice President Mr. Wilfred Pinto, ICYM Animator Mr. Harry D’silva, ICYM President Mr. Chintan Lobo, Secretary Ms. Preemal Dsa, ICYM Members and the parishioners were present for the programme.

The DRFO addressed the gathering. He told the significance of Vanamahotsava and how he had been actively involved in the tree plantation drives since a long time to create environmental awareness among the people. He explained how India is facing a significant decline in the forest reserve and that planting trees plays a vital role in conserving it. The DRFO also spoke about climatic change and global warming and motivated the gathering to plant maximum number of trees so that we all can contribute in saving nature as well as keep our country green.

Saplings of rare tropical fruit Lansium Parasiticum, also known as Langsat were distributed to the Ward Gurkars after the mass by Rev. Fr. Dr. Stephan Vas, Jhansi diocese.

Instead of planting new saplings, trees that were at least 1-2 years old were planted alongside the Church road. This was done because these plants are more robust and will have much higher survival chances. Also tree guards were placed to protect young trees from browsing by animals.

As a token of gratitude, ICYM members also planted saplings of tropical fruit Rambutan at the DRFO quarters.

This program helped to spread the awareness of tree plantation among people and stressed the importance of trees to reduce the bad effects of global warming and pollution.

It was indeed a very educative and an eco-conscious day for all ICYM members and parishioners.