Saplings disributed to citizens on Sankranti

NASHIK: The social forestry department distributed medicinal and ornamental saplings among residents near two popular jogging tracks in the city on the occasion of Makar Sankranti to spread environment and health awareness.
The saplings were distributed from 6.30 am to 11 am. Saplings of amla, tulsi, curry leaves, neem, shami, reetha, jaswandi, putranjiva, bamboo and hirda were sold to the citizens at nominal rates.
“We sold 240 saplings at stalls near the Golf Club Ground and Indira Nagar jogging track, as many people come here for walking and running. Around 350 people visited the stalls and sought information. We sell the saplings at minimal cost to encourage people to plant them,” said D K Padwal, deputy director of the social forestry department.
He said despite being the off season and putting up only two stalls, the response was good. “Generally, we get good response during the rainy season. Now, we are thinking of putting up stalls every month, as the citizens are becoming aware of the benefits of planting trees,” Padwal said.
The department carries out such drives throughout the year during occasions such as Independence Day, Republic Day, Gudi Padwa, dasara, makar sankranti, holi, World Forest Day, Environment Day, etc.
“We purchased medicinal plants for very nominal rates. Instead of going to the nursery, we can purchase it from places easily accessible to us,” said Vandana Shejwal, a tutor. Nikhil Nair, an executive of a private firm, said he got some saplings for his office.
“Taking into consideration the space constraints, people prefer ornamental plants. Many herbal and medicinal plants do not require too much space. Indoor plants are good options as well,” a social forestry department official said.