Janmadin Seuj Shapat Udyan: tree planting on birthdays
GUWAHATI: The Assam government Tuesday launched an environmental-friendly initiative to encourage people to celebrate their birthdays by planting trees, with Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah announcing that one 'Janmadin Seuj Shapat Udyan' (Birthday Green Pledge Garden) will be established in each of the state's 126 Assembly constituencies.
The initiative was formally launched at Topatoli in Sonapur under the Dimoria Legislative Assembly constituency, where two-year-old Bhaswika Talukdar marked her birthday by planting a sapling, becoming one of the first participants in the campaign.
Launched by the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department, the programme aims to transform birthdays into occasions for environmental conservation by encouraging citizens to plant a tree on their special day. The dedicated gardens will serve as public spaces where families can celebrate birthdays while contributing to the state's afforestation efforts.
Addressing the media, Mallabaruah said the initiative seeks to build a stronger emotional connection between people and nature by making citizens active participants in protecting the environment.
"While the Forest Department has been carrying out afforestation programmes across the state, this initiative gives every citizen an opportunity to become a stakeholder in protecting our environment. A tree planted on one's birthday carries memories, emotions and a sense of responsibility that grows stronger with time," the minister said.
He said the first Janmadin Seuj Shapat Udyan has been developed in the Dimoria Assembly constituency and similar gardens will be created across all Assembly constituencies in a phased manner. Suitable and easily accessible locations for the gardens will be identified in consultation with local legislators, he added.
The minister said people would be encouraged to visit the designated gardens on their birthdays, plant a sapling and take a pledge to protect nature. The Forest Department will be responsible for maintaining the trees to ensure their long-term survival, allowing participants to watch them grow over the years.
Mallabaruah said people naturally develop a special attachment to trees planted on memorable occasions such as birthdays, and this emotional bond would motivate families to revisit the gardens, monitor the growth of their trees and become partners in preserving Assam's rich green heritage.
The launch programme also saw participation from several local residents celebrating their birthdays. The image of young Bhaswika planting a sapling on her second birthday reflected the central idea of the campaign.