A green campaign will also be undertaken regarding the planting of the saplings in the nearly 2,500 acre of the academy, said Benoy Viswom, Minister for Forests.

The campaign saw 1,200 saplings being planted on the premises of Mahavir Enclave, the residential area of Indian Navy Sailors at Mundamveli. This is for the first time that the department is joining hands with the defence forces for a campaign with the slogan “Defend Nation, Defend Nature,” he said.

The biodiversity of oceans across the globe is facing serious threats due to pollution and global warming.

Coral reefs ecosystems are also under severe stress. Planting of trees is the only way to reduce the atmospheric carbon dioxide and increase the oxygen supply, Mr. Viswom said.

The coming together of the Forest Department and the Navy in protecting nature was a result of the increased awareness on environmental issues, he said.

In his message, A.K. Antony, Union Defence Minister, said that he was glad that the State was moving forward in combating global warming and climate change.

Vice-Admiral K.N. Sushil, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, was also present.

Rear Admiral HCS Bisht, Flag Officer Sea Training and B.S. Corrie, Chief Conservator of Forests (Social Forestry) were among those who attended.

A pledge was also administered to conserve nature.