While planting saplings is a known practice in Delhi, students are now going a step further by adopting saplings after planting them whether on roadside or a park, a police station, or their terrace.

The initiative, called ‘Mera Ped Mera Dost’ was introduced by NGO Women CAN, which gave saplings to students from class 7 to 10 in around 25 schools, both private and government, in East Delhi.

The NGO gave each willing child one sapling or a plant and told them it is not enough to only plant these. They were asked to name these plants, take care of them till one year after which it will review and honour those children whose plants or trees which are in good shape and healthy.

Around 2,000 sapligs were planted till last year and the NGO is planning to start the drive again this year in July.

“Our objective is not just plantation of trees but also strengthening the bond and involvement of individuals with environment. We follow up by calling the child’s parents or visiting the locations and taking updates on the present status of trees,” said Harveen Sukheja, Deputy President, Women CAN.

Along with the saplings, the students were also provided compost, manure, etc and were trained in the art of tree plantation techniques by arranging gardeners for them.

Recently, school students in East and North East Delhi were also involved in ideation for a pollution free environment.

“We had held a competition in 20 schools to make them aware of the environment related issues and asked them to give ideas on making Delhi pollution free. Many students brought up suggestions like carpooling to school or work, consolidating one’s trips, and catalytic converters fitted in all vehicles,” said Sukhija.