Van Mahotsav, the annual tree-planting festival in India, was celebrated with great enthusiasm and commitment this year under the leadership of our esteemed Managing Director, CP Bhartia, at ANKUR. This week-long festival, dedicated to the plantation of trees and saplings, not only aimed to increase the green cover but also to raise awareness about the importance of trees and the need for a sustainable environment.
A Week Dedicated to Nature
The event kicked off with a grand ceremony where CP Bhartia addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of trees in combating climate change and enhancing biodiversity. Over the week, various activities were organized to plant thousands of saplings, transforming open spaces into budding green zones.
Each day of the week had a specific theme, focusing on different aspects of environmental conservation
Celebrating Green Initiatives
One of the highlights of the week was CP Bhartia planting saplings at Panchamukhi Mahavir Mandir, Balasore. This significant act of nurturing nature showcased ANKUR’s dedication to environmental conservation and set an inspiring example for the community. It was a moment of pride and collective responsibility, reinforcing the festival’s core message: “Let’s nurture nature together!” 
The Valedictory Session
The culmination of Van Mahotsav was marked by a special valedictory session, graced by two distinguished guests: Mr. Vijay Kumar Jena, popularly known as the “Treeman of Odisha,” and Mr. Niranjan Jena, affectionately called “Brukya Mitra” (Friend of Trees).
Mr. Vijay Kumar Jena, renowned for his tireless efforts in tree plantation and environmental conservation, shared his inspiring journey and the challenges he faced in his mission to green Odisha. His dedication has led to the plantation of over a million trees, transforming barren lands into lush forests. In his speech, he emphasized the critical role of individuals and communities in protecting our planet and encouraged everyone to take active steps towards environmental stewardship.
Mr. Niranjan Jena, a passionate environmentalist and social worker, has been instrumental in promoting sustainable living practices and community-based conservation efforts. His initiatives have significantly contributed to the preservation of local flora and fauna. During the session, he discussed the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern conservation techniques and the need for collective action to address environmental issues.
Both guests were felicitated for their invaluable contributions to environmental conservation. Their presence and words of wisdom left a lasting impact on the audience, motivating them to continue their efforts towards a greener future.
Conclusion
As we reflect on the accomplishments of this week, we are reminded of the words of Mr. Vijay Kumar Jena: “Each tree planted is a step towards a healthier planet.” With this spirit, let us continue our journey towards a greener and more sustainable world.
