Catholics in Indore Join Forest Department’s Green Drive, Plant 1,500 Saplings

Indore, Madhya Pradesh, July 16, 2025— The Catholic Diocese of Indore joined hands with the Indore Forest Department to support its Plantation Maha Abhiyan by organising a large-scale tree plantation drive at Kasturba Gram on Sunday, July 13. Around 150 members of the Catholic community in Indore participated in the event, which aimed to increase the region’s green cover and promote environmental conservation.

Bishop Thomas Mathew Kuttimackal, Bishop of the Indore Diocese, led the group of Catholics in planting over 1,500 saplings of various native species, including mango, neem, and jamun.

“By participating in this plantation drive, we are contributing to a greener Indore and fulfilling our responsibility towards God’s creation,” Bishop Thomas said.

The initiative is part of a broader campaign aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call urging citizens to plant a tree under the "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" campaign. The Indore Forest Department has set an ambitious target of planting 684,900 saplings this year, of which 413,600 have already been planted.

Speaking to Catholic Connect, Yohan Katara, Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO), Indore Forest Department, stated that the department not only supplies quality saplings at government rates to laypeople participating in such drives but also provides them with comprehensive technical support. 

“We guide participants in proper planting techniques, fence plantation sites, deploy caretakers, and provide regular watering, weed control, and manure,” Katara said. "Similar initiatives are planned across other parts of Indore, with the next plantation drive taking place on July 20," he added. 

The Indore Forest Department is encouraging all communities to participate in the mission to transform Indore into a greener, healthier city.

“This is a people’s movement,” Katara stated. “We are collaborating with schools, religious institutions, and local residents to reach every corner of Indore.”

By Catholic Connect Reporter

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