“Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” Plantation

MSCB University, the Blue Community Mayurbhanj Biological Research (MBR), Abhay Dan Trust and Blue Community NET Unite for “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” Mega Plantation Drive.

Over 500 Fruit-Bearing and Indigenous Saplings Planted to Promote Biodiversity, Climate Resilience and Sustainable Campus Development.

Baripada, Odisha | 11 June 2026.

In a significant demonstration of environmental stewardship and collective climate action, the NSS PG Unit of Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanja Deo University (MSCB University), Baripada, organized a large-scale plantation drive under the nationwide campaign “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” on 11 June 2026. The initiative brought together academic leaders, faculty members, students,environmental organizations, and community stakeholders to strengthen biodiversity conservation and promote sustainable development.

The programme was conducted with the active support and participation of Mayurbhanj Biological Research (MBR), Abhay Dan Trust, New Delhi, a supporting partner of MBR, and members of Blue Community NET, reflecting a shared commitment towards ecological restoration, climate resilience, and environmental sustainability.

The plantation drive was led by Prof. Mohendra Kumar Mohanty, Vice-Chancellor, MSCB University, and Dr. K.K. Barik, Chairman, PG Council, who encouraged students and faculty members to play a proactive role in environmental conservation. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from professors, university staff, NSS volunteers, research scholars, and students from various departments.

Prominent faculty members participating in the programme included Dr. Puspanjali Parida and Dr. Priyaranjan Debata from the Department of Zoology, Dr. P.K. Satapathy from the Department of Chemistry, Dr. Indrajeet Nayak from the Department of Physics, Dr. Subendhu Kumar Satapathy from the Department of Social Work, and Dr. Basanta Mohanta from the Department of Anthropology and Tribal Studies. Their collective participation highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary engagement in addressing contemporary environmental challenges.

Representing the environmental sector, Samir Kumar Sahu, Executive Director of Mayurbhanj Biological Research (MBR) and a member of Blue Community South Asia Coordination, actively participated in the plantation activities and interacted with students and volunteers on the importance of ecosystem restoration and climate-responsive community action.

During the programme, more than 500 fruit-bearing and indigenous tree saplings were planted across the MSCB University campus. The selected species are expected to contribute significantly to biodiversity enhancement, carbon sequestration, groundwater recharge, soil conservation, and improved air quality. In the long term, these trees will provide ecological benefits by creating habitats for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife while contributing to a healthier and greener campus environment.

The campaign “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” carries a powerful message of gratitude and environmental responsibility. By planting a tree in honour of one’s mother, participants symbolically connected personal values with environmental action. The initiative inspired students and faculty members to view tree plantation not merely as an activity but as a long-term commitment to protecting nature and future generations.

NSS volunteers played a crucial role in organizing and implementing the plantation drive. From site preparation and sapling distribution to planting and awareness-building activities, the students demonstrated remarkable enthusiasm and leadership. Their participation reflected the growing environmental consciousness among young people and their willingness to contribute to sustainable development goals.

The programme also served as an educational platform to discuss the critical role of trees in combating climate change, reducing urban heat stress, conserving biodiversity, improving ecosystem services, and supporting India’s environmental commitments. Speakers emphasized that plantation drives should be accompanied by proper maintenance, monitoring, and community ownership to ensure the survival and healthy growth of planted saplings.

As climate change and biodiversity loss continue to pose significant global challenges, collaborative initiatives such as this plantation drive demonstrate the importance of partnerships between educational institutions, research organizations, civil society groups, and community networks. The active involvement of MSCB University, Mayurbhanj Biological Research (MBR), Abhay Dan Trust, and Blue Community NET showcases how local action can contribute meaningfully to broader environmental goals.

The successful plantation of more than 500 saplings marks an important milestone in MSCB University’s journey towards becoming a greener and more climate-resilient campus. It also reinforces the shared commitment of all participating organizations to foster environmental awareness, promote sustainable practices, and create lasting ecological benefits for future generations.

The event concluded with a collective pledge by participants to nurture and protect the planted saplings, ensuring that the campaign’s message extends beyond a single day and grows into a lasting legacy of environmental responsibility and community stewardship.

Organized by: NSS PG Unit, Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanja Deo University (MSCB University), Baripada

Participating Organizations:
Mayurbhanj Biological Research (MBR)
Abhay Dan Trust, New Delhi (Supporting Partner of MBR)
Blue Community NET

Key Achievement: 500+ Fruit-Bearing and Indigenous Tree Saplings Planted

Theme: “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” – One Tree in the Name of Mother