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Childhood Guardians: Fruit Trees Blossom in Kerala
2 Oct
Summary
- 157 children will plant and nurture 157 fruit trees on Gandhi Jayanti.
- The initiative aims to foster responsibility and attachment to nature.
- Funding comes from a teacher's Vanamitra Award prize money.
As of October 2, 2026, P. Dileep, a plant researcher and teacher, continues his environmental conservation efforts in Kerala's Kannur and Kozhikode districts. This year's Gandhi Jayanti initiative, 'Bappuji @157 -- One Child, One Fruit Tree, A Green Tribute to Bapu,' involves 157 children planting and caring for an equal number of fruit trees.
Dileep believes that nurturing is key to a tree's survival, aiming to instill a sense of responsibility in children. The 157th sapling will be planted at the Kannur Central Jail, with other trees being planted at homes. Previous conservation projects by Dileep include planting medicinal plants and trees that feed butterfly larvae, each with a common goal of ensuring plant survival.
The initiative is financed by Dileep's Vanamitra Award prize money. He allows children to choose their preferred plants, enhancing their interest in protection. Dileep's commitment to environmentalism is evident in his consistent voluntary service and recognition through various state awards.
