As part of this initiative, approximately one hundred mangrove saplings, representing various species, were planted near coastal water bodies at the Ernakulam Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Njarakkal, India, a campus managed by the CMFRI. The plantation drive was officially launched by Dr Grinson George, the director of CMFRI. This effort aligns with the ‘Plant4Mother’ campaign, recently introduced by prime minister Narendra Modi.
The timing of this initiative is significant, as coastal regions increasingly face extreme weather events linked to climate change. According to Dr George, mangroves play a critical role in shielding coastal areas from environmental challenges such as storm surges, sea erosion, coastal flooding, and rising sea levels. By restoring and preserving these vital ecosystems, the initiative aims to build climate-resilient coastal communities and support the livelihoods of local fishers. Mangroves also serve as crucial breeding grounds for various shrimp and fish species, further underscoring their ecological importance.
Dr George emphasised the broader goals of the campaign, which include raising public awareness about the importance of mangrove forests and encouraging community participation in similar environmental efforts. Looking ahead, CMFRI plans to work closely with local authorities in Njarakkal and Vypin to expand the campaign's reach.
In addition to the mangrove plantation, saplings of various tree species were also planted at CMFRI’s headquarters in Thevara, including its residential quarters. The Marine Biodiversity and Environment Management Division of CMFRI coordinated this initiative, ensuring that similar drives were conducted at all Regional Centres and Stations of CMFRI across the country.
The ‘Plant4Mother’ campaign, launched on World Environment Day, aims to plant 1.4 billion trees by March 2025.
