The Environment vs Development Dilemma

Recently, Nashik has made it to the national fame. Many century-old trees were cut for the developmental needs. The citizen of Nashik and nature-lovers have strongly opposed this act of Municipal Corporation. The conflict has spurred discussions on sustainable development, with many urging the government to use urban planning techniques that incorporate trees into city landscaping rather than removing them. 

But this kind of 'development' is taking place all over the world. In major cities like Delhi, Kolkata & Mumbai, the air quality index regularly exceeds hazardous level. Lifelines of civilization, our sacred rivers, now hardly flow. Climate change and global warming are no longer distant warnings, they are lived realities. Our water bodies are drying up, air is becoming unbreathable and forests are vanishing. And we are relentlessly extracting oil, water, coal, minerals, and metals from Mother Earth. Forget food, if current trends continue and no drastic action is taken, nearly 40% of India’s population may lack access to potable water by the year 2030.

In recent years, we have witnessed a peculiar and persistent conflict - between development and environmental conservation. On one hand, development demands infrastructure like roads, electricity, housing, factories and amenities, all of which rely on natural resources like water, forests, minerals and land. Unsurprisingly, their extraction leads to pollution, shrinking rivers, deforestation and a polluted ecosystem. On the other hand, when we move towards environmental conservation, it often seems that the pace of development begins to slow down. As if there exists a natural conflict between the two. We find ourselves caught in a kind of a moral dilemma, where every choice comes at a cost. Prioritizing development often comes at the expense of nature, while prioritizing conservation can hinder economic progress and the fulfilment of basic human needs.

Does development conflict with the environment? There is a widespread belief that it is so. This explains why there is a constant refrain from some economists and policymakers about the rigid environmental laws of the country stalling ‘development’ projects like industrial corridors, highways and other infrastructure projects. The tension between economic development and environmental conservation is not unique to India, but the scale of projects undertaken in the country has drawn significant attention. India, one of the fastest-growing economies, requires improved infrastructure, energy projects, and urban expansions to meet the demands of its population and global market competitiveness. However, this rapid growth has placed immense pressure on natural ecosystems, particularly forests. Several large-scale development projects have been flagged for causing extensive tree felling: Highway Expansions, Urbanization, Industrial & Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and Mining Projects.

Its true, the environment faces grave challenges, but we must also recognize that millions of people around the world still struggle to meet their most basic needs. Can we expect someone who doesn’t have two meals a day to understand and act upon ideas like 'Sustainable development' or 'Carbon footprint'?

Once a society meets its fundamental needs, it naturally aspires for a better life. This desire is neither surprising nor wrong. A person who owns a bicycle may dream of a motorcycle, the motorcyclist of a car, the car-owner of a yacht. Similarly, someone in a mud house may long for a concrete house, and so on. This is the nature of human aspiration to seek comfort and progress.

But the question is not whether these desires are valid. The real question is: Can nature support them all? Are Earth’s land, water, air, minerals, and energy sufficient and everlasting to fulfil the growing aspirations of every individual? Resources are finite, but human desires can be infinite.

This is where we need a holistic vision: one that upholds both environmental sustainability and human development. If natural resources are used judiciously, equitably and with shared responsibility, we can protect the environment and address deep-rooted issues like poverty, inequality and the very basic nature of the human i.e. growth. In Indian philosophy, there is no division between human and nature. Nature is not just an external reality, it is an extension of our inner being. When we call Earth 'Mother', it is not a poetic metaphor, but a deep experiential truth. She nourishes, shelters and sustains us. Caring for the environment does not mean halting development; it means choosing a form of development that walks hand-in-hand with nature. Incorporating principles like refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle and embracing a zero-waste lifestyle is not just ethical; but also, is essential. Energy use must be mindful; water and electricity must be conserved. Simplicity is not a regression. In fact, it is an elevation of thought.

Nature can flourish without us, but we cannot survive without nature. Let us not forget that if we continue to exploit nature, and if - out of balance - it begins to respond with equal intensity, the outcomes will be beyond our control. Just as humans are breaking their natural boundaries, if animals and ecosystems were to do the same, the consequences would be devastating.

The path ahead lies not in choosing between environment and development, but in realigning development with the deeper rhythms of nature. Only then can we ensure a future that is just, joyful and sustainable for all. A clean and green environment is also important for a healthy workforce. As soon as we introduce this perspective to development, it readily becomes evident that development and environment can never disagree with each other. Rather, the two must work together. Any project that seeks to bring in economic benefits needs to weigh in the associated costs to the environment. Only when the benefits outweigh all the costs, including the environmental costs, should the project go through.

The new approach calls for three important steps. First, development planning by policymakers need to internalize the environmental concerns. Second, existing tools for quantifying environmental costs, such as Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and green accounting standards, need to be developed further and made more user-friendly. Third, a renewed focus on interdisciplinary courses on environment, economics, accounting and development is urgently needed. 

While the need for development in India is undeniable, the current trajectory, which involves extensive tree felling and deforestation, raises significant environmental and ethical concerns. It is crucial for the Indian government to reassess its development strategy, ensuring that economic growth is achieved without sacrificing the country’s invaluable natural resources. Sustainable development, which balances growth with environmental preservation, must be the guiding principle if India is to secure a healthy and prosperous future for its people and ecosystems.

Today, we celebrate the 16th anniversary of Gifting Trees...! 😍

वसुधैव कुटुम्बकम् !

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ is a Sanskrit phrase found in Hindu texts such as the Maha Upanishad, meaning, "the world is one family". Today, as we face global challenges like climate change, environmental degradation and loss of biodiversity, this ancient wisdom becomes more relevant than ever. It promotes a global perspective and prioritizes the greater good over individual or family interests. It encourages considering the welfare of others, fostering global solidarity and responsibility on various issues, including climate change, sustainable development, peace and tolerance of differences. It reminds us that our existence is woven into a larger, intricate tapestry of life that transcends borders, species and differences. 

The philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam does not limit itself to human solidarity but extends to the entire natural world. Trees, animals, rivers, oceans, mountains - all are part of this one cosmic family. They do not merely exist for human benefit; they have intrinsic value and their own roles in maintaining the balance of nature. The world thrives because of this delicate interconnectedness. Any disruption to one part of the system can ripple outward, affecting all life, including ourselves. In simple terms: no one can sustain alone. 

Nature’s Self-Sustaining Systems

Nature, in its pure form, is the epitome of self-sustainability. Every element of the natural world plays a role in a grand cycle of renewal:

• Forests regulate the climate, produce oxygen, purify air, encourage rainfall and prevent soil erosion. They provide habitat for countless species, ensure biodiversity, and act as carbon sinks.
• Oceans absorb a significant amount of the world’s carbon dioxide and regulate weather patterns.
• Soil nourishes plants, and in return, plants protect and enrich the soil.
• Animals and insects participate in pollination, seed dispersion and maintaining the health of ecosystems.

These systems operate harmoniously without human interference. When left undisturbed, nature has the incredible ability to regenerate, repair and sustain itself. Every fallen leaf, every decaying animal, every raindrop and every gust of wind plays its part in the endless cycle of life and death, ensuring that nothing goes to waste.

The Disruption of Balance

However, humans - driven by self-centered motives and unchecked greed - have increasingly disrupted this equilibrium. Our activities have introduced pollutants, destroyed forests, overexploited resources and driven countless species to extinction. Despite experiencing firsthand the adverse effects of pollution, global warming and climate instability, concrete corrective actions are lacking.

One of the gravest challenges that we currently face is waste management. The exponential rise in solid and liquid waste generation has overwhelmed natural systems. Rather than reducing the waste production, even many developed countries rely on temporary solutions like incineration. While incineration may reduce the volume of waste, it releases harmful pollutants into the air, exacerbating environmental problems instead of solving them. Landfills, another common method, leak toxic chemicals into the soil and groundwater. Our failure to implement sustainable waste management systems highlights a deep disconnect from the values of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

A Call to Action

If we are to survive and thrive, we must realign ourselves with nature’s principles. Here’s what we must urgently pursue:

• Reduce Waste Generation: Adopt minimalistic lifestyles, prioritize recycling and promote industries that use sustainable materials.
• Conserve Forests and Biodiversity: Protect existing ecosystems and support reforestation & biodiversity conservation initiatives.
• Promote Eco-friendly Technologies: Invest in clean energy, waste-to-energy plants and technologies that emulate nature’s zero-waste processes.
• Educate and Spread Awareness: Instill the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam in educational curricula and community programs.
• Support Circular Economies: Shift from a linear ‘take-make-waste’ economy to a circular economy where resources are reused, repaired and regenerated.

Nature, when respected and protected, has the innate power to sustain itself and all life within it. The ancient idea that the Earth and all its beings are one family is not a sentimental ideal; it is a fundamental truth critical for our survival.

We are not outside nature; we are part of it. Our wellbeing is deeply intertwined with the health of forests, oceans, animals, insects and the soil beneath our feet. Recognizing this interconnectedness and acting on it with responsibility and compassion is not optional - it is essential. The time has come to live by the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, not just in words, but in every choice and action we take. 

On the occasion of 15th anniversary of Gifting Trees, let us embrace the wisdom of the past to heal the future - because when we protect nature, we protect ourselves.

Indigenous vs. Introduced Plants : The Ongoing Debate

Few months ago, I stumbled upon an article written by a representative of an ecological restoration firm that has been promoting native plant species for the past decade. The article sparked controversy by suggesting that non-native tree species need not be shunned altogether. Though the statement was not completely wrong, that article raised eye-brows of many nature-lovers as the statement was contradicting the very soul of that organization. 

So how do you decide what kind of tree to plant? Or perhaps, have you wondered, while walking down a city street or strolling through a park, why did we choose to plant a row of non-native Gulmohor or Rain-trees, instead of trees native to our region? This post aims to provide clarity on this topic by exploring the various factors that influence our tree-planting choices. 

At present, there is a debate on whether to plant indigenous trees or introduced/alien trees. Some favor indigenous native trees while others do not seem to bother about the species. But this debate should be considered from an environmental standpoint.

Different plants thrive in different regions of our country according to the nutrients, climate and habitat. These plants and the wildlife that depend on them create a rich ecosystem, and the introduction of an alien plants into this delicate balance is a matter of ongoing debate. Some say that many introduced shrubs, vines & trees that are naturalised in India, are useful. The examples include guava, custard-apple, grapes, sugarcane etc. But it should be noted here that all these plants are grown agriculturally, where their spread is controlled, carefully maintained. Furthermore, not all introduced plants are non-invasive or benign to the ecosystem.

Proponents of introduced trees argue that they provide shade, oxygen, and visual appeal through their colorful flowers. However, the problem arises when a single introduced tree species outcompetes ten native trees, leading to a tenfold reduction in carbon dioxide absorption and shade. Additionally, habitat loss for birds and pollinators can have devastating impacts on the ecosystem. Introduced species are often free from natural predators & pests, which makes them prone to becoming invasive, out-competing native flora for water and soil. This in turn drives away biodiversity and reduces the chances available for native species, leading to biological pollution. Introduced plants are often short-lived and brittle, making them susceptible to uprooting during storms. The leaves of trees like Eucalyptus and Mangium do not decompose easily and do not contribute to the production of organic fertilizer, resulting in soil pollution. 

While introduced trees like Gulmohar, Copperpod, Jacaranda and Spathodea may look beautiful, their ecological value is negligible. Although a few species of birds may perch on these trees, and pollinators like bees may occasionally be seen on their flowers due to a lack of other flowering species, it would be foolish to conclude that introduced species attract birds and pollinators. Many state governments have banned the cultivation of Eucalyptus due to the large amount of water it absorbs from the soil, which can exacerbate water scarcity issues in certain areas. Introduced species like Gliricidia, Mangium (Acacia Mangium), Earleaf Acacia (Acacia Auriculiformis) and Mesquite (Prosopis Juliflora) were brought to India from Australia and Mexico for rapid reforestation, timber, and fuelwood purposes. However, these same plants have now become a serious threat to ecosystems, competing with indigenous flora and fauna and disrupting nutrient cycling and hydrology. This impacts the overall economic stability of local communities and human health. Many of these species have aggressive root systems or produce a large number of viable seeds, both of which allow the plants to quickly invade the soils outside their growing areas. This resulted in almost destruction of the native Babool (Acacia Nilotica, or recently known as Vachellia Nilotica), which is an important tree species if dry regions. 

Trees native to a particular region have evolved to thrive in specific soil types, rainfall patterns, light availability, seed dispersal mechanisms, and other environmental attributes. In their native environment, these trees may provide cover, food, and habitat for birds, amphibians, insects, and mammals. The tree species that have been living in India for centuries and providing benefits not only to humans but also to wildlife and the ecosystem deserve priority. In fact, there are several fast-growing native trees in India that bear beautiful flowers. Native trees are more adaptable to their growing conditions and more resistant to disease than alien species that have only been introduced in recent decades. You can find the list of native trees here.

Several gardening enthusiasts and nature-lovers derive satisfaction from cultivating rare and uncommon plant species, which are not easily found in their vicinity. In fact, the introduction of new plants is a celebrated activity which delights many gardeners, and attracts media attention. These practices have contributed to scarcity of our own important native species in the urban areas across India. Sadly, it is now increasingly challenging to come across trees like Palash, Sita-Ashok or Kaim in the gardens of many cities. 

In conclusion, it is important to understand the impact of the trees we plant in our region. While non-native species may be visually appealing, they can have negative impacts on the local ecosystem. On the other hand, native trees have evolved to thrive in their environment and provide important benefits to both humans and wildlife. By prioritizing the plantation of native trees, we can promote a healthier and more diverse ecosystem while also supporting the local economy and preserving our cultural heritage. Though there is no need to hate the previously planted and grown non-native trees; at least now onwards, the plantation of any alien or foreign plant must be strongly discouraged. 

Today is 13th anniversary of Gifting Trees... Come, let us all take responsibility to protect our environment and choose the right kind of trees to plant for a sustainable future!

Going Back to a Simple Lifestyle...

In our world of excessive stuff, there's a silent movement towards minimalistic living that's gaining momentum. A movement related to living simply is Minimalism, where the focus is on living with less, compared to simplicity, which strives for living a less complex life. The two works quite well together. A growing number of people in urban cities are questioning whether they need as much as they have: clothes, accessories, gadgets and everything that fills our homes but doesn't necessarily serve us better or make us happy. People are embracing simplicity of living. In other words, they are developing the art of living with less, going back to our rustic roots. 

One who have experienced this simplicity, have to admit certain things. First, voluntary simplicity can help mitigate the effects of climate change and other environmental problems. Secondly, if we cut out the things that we don’t need, then the quality of our lives will improve drastically. And lastly, living more simply increases the spiritual dimension of our lives as we get more time for self reflection. Voluntary simplicity fits well the category of sustainable consumption because its principles include: creating economically sustainable future, shaping balanced relationships between humans as well as building and maintaining close ties to the mother Nature. 

In economics, there is a Law of Diminishing Marginal Utility which states that the marginal utility of a good or service declines as its available supply increases (Utility is the satisfaction or benefit derived by consuming a product). In simple words, if we consume or have more commodities, they become less valuable or less satisfying. More & more things or loads of stuff is not going to give you eternal satisfaction and peace. The law is known also as Fundamental Law of Satisfaction. Voluntary simplicity is an exact oppositional living strategy that rejects the high-consumption, materialistic lifestyles of consumer cultures and affirms what is often just called ‘the simple life’ or ‘downshifting.’

This does not necessarily mean that we should leave everything and become a cave-dweller, nor there should be the complete absence of technology. Out of many people who simplify, still continue to live conventional lives, working for a living, raising families, exploring spiritual interests, connecting with their communities, and enjoying leisure time.

While writing this Voluntary Simplicity series, I used to realize that many things or stuff I have are actually an futile, useless or have a very short lifespan; but their manufacturing process either pollutes unnecessarily or consume too much resources and energy or both. So when I actually give it a thought, we all are surrounded by such stuff. For me, I have decided to gradually decrease the stuff around me and move slowly towards Simplicity.

I have realized that it is a deliberate choice to live with less in the belief that more life will be returned to us in the process. According to the most prominent historian of the Simplicity Movement, David Shi, the primary attributes of the simple life include: thoughtful frugality; a suspicion of luxuries; a reverence and respect for nature; a desire for self-sufficiency; a commitment to conscientious rather than conspicuous consumption; a privileging of creativity and contemplation over possessions; an aesthetic preference for minimalism and functionality; and a sense of responsibility for the just uses of the world’s resources. More concisely, Shi defines voluntary simplicity as ‘enlightened material restraint.’

Yes..! Even You can be happy with little. But today, we have already perfected the art of being unhappy with much - or too much. Out of our selfish greed rather than the higher values, in search of petty pleasures rather than some worthwhile accomplishments, we have critically jeopardized the planet’s life-cycles and caused species to fall extinct at a frantic pace. We must return to ancient India’s philosophy of simple living, else the collapse of our artificial system may one day force us to it. Our small everyday choices are blind and market-driven; let us make them enlightened.

The crux of the issue is the reduction of toxic loads that surrounds us. Natural living, changes every facet of life. It restrains unhealthy behavior, and build up of nasty toxins associated with hectic lifestyles. Living pure in every small way of daily living becomes the primary goal. This is appealing as it saves money, reduces stress and achieves good health. But how does one get started? Do you have to stop shopping completely and stop washing yourself, your clothes and homes because everything out there is a potential threat? Absolutely not! unless, you want to use that as an excuse to do nothing. You can try and become self-sufficient or self-dependent. Instead of automated electrical equipment, try to use mechanical or manual one which requires physical strength to operate. For example, skip the escalator and take the stairs.

In the end, The Choice is Yours - Simplicity or Complexity? Would you prefer to live a life of simplicity or a life of complexity? Well, that might depend on your views of simplicity. And you can choose any reason for opting - personal, social, humanitarian, or ecological! We all can live meaningful, free, happy, and infinitely diverse lives, while consuming no more than a sustainable and equitable share of nature. That, at least, is the challenging ideal which seems to motivate and guide many of its advocates and practitioners.

The Ultimate Sophistication!

For the past several years, many people are interestingly being attentive to stories of people returning to the simple life, of people moving back to the countryside or growing their own food or building their own home and so on. This phenomenon appears to be of deep social significance. It is the way of life whose time seems to be arriving; or more precisely, returning. However our present era of relative abundance contrasts sharply with the material poverty of the past.

Just give it a thought - We take birth, have education, do a job which we hate or do a business where we blame colleagues for failures; find a life partner cause everybody is getting married, have a family, have a disease or two, and finally die! Rarely, some fine day, we realize: We were running a rat-race simply because everybody else around us was doing the same and we just did not have the time to live!

Well, I agree that we all need money or few materialistic things to get the fair share of easiness in our life. So we have to work for it. Unfortunately, this can be a double-edged sword. The more we work, the more we earn; the more we earn, the more we spend. That requires us to work more, and the vicious cycle is hard to break. Outwardly we may have the appearance of having it all and being successful, but inside we may feel a void and an unsettled, hard-to-fill emptiness. Perhaps one needs to get out of the rat race and instead get to the top where the ‘top’ is defined by self, not by society or your boss. But this journey is not that simple as it seems.

Duane Elgin, writer of the famous book Voluntary Simplicity believes this journey is Toward a Way of Life That Is Outwardly Simple, Inwardly Rich. The driving forces behind Voluntary Simplicity range from personal concerns to critical national problems. In my last article, we have discussed that - We all have to abandon our destructive system of exploiting our natural resources and find sustainable ways to inhabit the planet. But how?

Voluntary simplicity or simple living is subjective - it is different for each person or family. Some may envision simple living as moving to the countryside and live with the basics, while others may picture a small dwelling in the middle of a city. For some it may be enhancing relationships and finding inner peace. For others it may be a major life change. The particular expression of simplicity is a personal matter. Every one of us knows where our lives are unnecessarily complicated. We are all painfully aware of the clutter and pretense that weigh upon us and make our passage through the world more cumbersome and awkward. Hence a one-size-fits-all do not apply to Voluntary Simplicity. 

Voluntary simplicity is not about living in poverty; it is about living with balance. To live more simply is to unburden ourselves. Sometimes this approach to life involves providing for material needs as simply and directly as possible, minimizing expenditure on consumer goods & services and needless distractions; and directing progressively more time and energy towards pursuing non-materialistic sources of satisfaction and meaning. Simplicity is to establish a more direct, modest, unshowy, and suffocation-free relationship with all aspects of our lives: the things that we consume, the work that we do, our relationships with others, and our connections with nature. This generally means accepting a lower level of consumption, in exchange for more time and freedom to pursue other life goals, such as community or social engagements, more time with family, artistic or intellectual projects, more fulfilling employment, social participation, sustainable living, spiritual exploration, reading, contemplation, relaxation, pleasure-seeking, love, and so on - none of which need to rely on money, or much money. 

I have met people who do not have time for friends, kids & family, exercise or even for themselves. They will spend the whole week sloughing at the workplace and to release that stress they will fly to some dense forest to exploit it further in the name of hobby. I wonder what they are running after or what they are running from..?

By cutting out the things we don’t absolutely need and by ceasing to do the things that we don’t absolutely need to do, we can increase the amount of free time we have. We can use this free time to improve our intellectual and spiritual lives and to increase the quality of our relationships. Voluntary Simplicity means that we keep our eye on what really matters in life. It means letting go of anything that interferes with your view of a high quality of life and meeting life face-to-face as it is - straight and unadulterated.

At present the concept of Voluntary Simplicity gains an additional importance because limiting consumption becomes a point of special interest in these times of global pandemic and economic recession. The recession not only forces consumption reduction but also stimulates deeper deliberation about the necessary shifts in individuals’ values system. Thus crisis may work as an ‘alarm clock’ or ‘teacher’ that motivates consumers to simplify their lives.

The idea of simple lifestyle is nothing new to Indians. In the Yoga Sūtras, great Indian sage Patanjali listed Aparigraha as the fifth of the Yamas (the don’ts) or code of self-restraint. The majority of pre-industrial societies also used to live in a very simple way. The philosophy of minimised consumption, an antidote to greed-driven economic growth, is part of the Indian worldview.

Living simply is more about the journey than the destination. Most people do not wake up one day and make a simple life. It is a slow process, an evolution that occurs over time. I, personally, have slowly evolved through conscious decisions to simplify. There is no concrete prescription for achieving a simple life, and each of us will take our own unique path. You can start by growing your own Fenugreek at your place or composting the kitchen waste, by decreasing the use processed foods or simply by decreasing the electricity usage consciously.

Choosing a simple life requires time and energy to rediscover what is most important to you, what brings you happiness, and what you really want. It requires you to slow down and focus on your path. Once you find your bliss, then your focus shifts to achieving, and life becomes more joyful and less stressful. The simple life of voluntary simplicity is about discovering the freedom and contentment that comes with knowing how much consumption is truly ‘enough’!!!

This Environment day, let us begin our journey slowly towards the simpler and meaningful life..!

अपरिग्रहस्थैर्ये जन्मकथंतासंबोधः ॥३९॥

Meaning : With constancy of aparigraha, a spiritual illumination of the how and why of motives and birth emerges. (39)
                                                             - Sage Patanjali, Yoga Sūtra.

Have You started segregating your waste?!

Ever since the segregation of Solid Waste at source has been made mandatory, there is a state of anxiety among the citizens of Nashik. Few believes the idea is good for environment. Few didn't give it a damn. Others started segregating the waste as not doing so may invite a penalty. But soon, more & more people started segregating their waste as Nashik Municipal Corporation started collecting fine from residential as well as commercial complexes.

Why this agitation and panic faces all around? Is it that difficult to segregate the solid waste, which actually is a resource?? And that's too for our own sake & future??? Not at all!

Remember 3 years back, on 5th anniversary of Gifting Trees..., We have discussed about the amount of waste going to local dumping yard?! It is time to act on it...if You don't want get penalized. :-)

Well... Segregation of Waste is very simple to do. I have already mentioned it in my previous articles about Composting techniques. One have to store Wet Waste like Vegetables residues, discarded food, egg shells, tea powder etc in Green Container. Dry Waste like newspaper, plastic, bottles, metal scrap, old clothes & footwear etc should go into Blue container. For other Dangerous Waste like Pesticide or colour bins, Electronic waste, CFLs, Tubes, Blade & Needles etc must go into Red container. Used Sanitary napkins & Diapers can also go into the Red one.

The Corporation is working hard on spreading the awareness and necessity of segregation at source.

It is due the interest taken by Nashik Municipal Corporation in this issue, Now people are asking & enquiring about the ways to segregate and recycle waste. Isn't it a good sign?! Oh yes, IT IS..!

Yes...there are still few people, who find excuses to do it, who complains about Garbage Van workers that they carry our segregated waste into the single container. Well, that is not the reason for You to avoid the segregation. Forget about the environment, This very simple step is necessary for our future generations. It is the time to act...

Toady is 5th May! Eight years went by, and here We are celebrating the anniversary of Gifting Trees again! :) Last year, We have planted 63 saplings of native trees and am happy to tell you that majority of them are flourishing well..! 

Every Day is Environment Day!!!

A tree-lover needs no occasion for tree plantation. This 31st May, my father, Dr Prashant Phalak retired from his services. As per his wish, he wanted to plant 58 trees on his retirement. This idea was so fascinating that his office colleagues and staff also decided to volunteer for the same.

Early morning of 31/05/2017, we all with the Native saplings, reached the venue, which was a Municipal Corporation space reserved for senior citizen. Slowly people started gathering and soon, members of Senior Citizen Club joined us too. They all were inquisitive about the saplings' name and growing techniques.

So, around 63 saplings were planted by a group of 18 self-motivated tree lovers. The home grown saplings of Banyan, Peepal, Mango, Pongam tree, Jackfruit, Red Silk-Cotton tree, Arjun, Mahua, Indian Tulip, Indian Cherry, Jamun, Wild Date Palm, Curry Leaf, Indian Cork tree, Tamarind, Drumstick tree etc. were planted in the soil. We usually plant a sapling with a plastic bottle which is cut from base, obviously to facilitate the watering process. This method helps a lot in summer as you just need to pour water into the bottle and over the period of time, water slowly percolates near roots of the saplings. I have learned and adapted these new methods because We are not interested in mere Plantation. Hence we need to think about the nurturing of the saplings also. Each & every planted sapling will be looked after.

Here are the snapshots of the event...

This event inspired few of the members and they also wished to plant few Native trees. Some of them visited my small nursery where I grow my own saplings and learned some of the seed germination and plantation techniques. So astonished to see the trees we have planted so far, Dr Deshmukh and Dr Jadhav decided to plant few saplings near their office premises. My father not only donated 40 saplings to them, but happily helped them to plant the saplings on occasion of World Environment Day. What a day!

5th June is not just a tree plantation day. Let us hope & try to look after the planted saplings till next Environment Day. But as said earlier, it is very easy to plant a sapling, but a way more difficult to nurture it! Hopefully, We all will look after the saplings and see them grow into trees..! :)

The Joy of Growing Trees!

Its been seven years...
Seven years of plantation...
Seven years of nurturing...
Seven years of love for Native trees, Ecosystem and Environment... :)

When you plant a sapling, you start looking after it. You tend to admire its day-to-day growth. And one fine day...you realize that the sapling which is on the verge of becoming a tree, needs no further care. Rather the tree starts looking after your needs...as the tree starts flowering and fruiting!

Its a great great experience which can not be described in words, to see the tree planted by you, flowering in different colours; to taste its delicious fruits! And out of all, its a wonderful, joyous feeling... that no one can purchase or no one can snatch. But one can surely experience it... by planting, nurturing and growing native trees!

The trees that we had planted seven years ago, have already started flowering and fruiting. Seeds of trees like Mango, Indian Beech, Neem, Gamhar, Sita-Ashoka etc have also started producing new saplings, to be planted somewhere and flourish. :)

You might remember, on the second anniversary of Gifting Trees, we had started a segment named Tree Rescue. It was based on the fact that the saplings growing on walls or any other undesired place in urban areas, should get a fair chance to grow. In fact such saplings are capable of surviving in harsh conditions. The seeds of species like Banyan, Peepal or Cluster Fig are often dispersed by birds and one can see them growing on walls or buildings; where either their growth is limited or they are short-lived. One just need to transplant them carefully somewhere where they can flourish. You will be very pleased to know that the rescued saplings of Peepal tree are now almost 25-30 feet tall and are growing in full speed. Yes, they can be called as Trees now!

Last year, we have planted 9 native saplings. How many have you..? Want to experience the same great joyous feeling... Come, plant & dedicate native trees! And grow them..!

Love can do miracles..!

Last year, my cute little niece Poorvi planted a Banyan tree sapling on the eve of Vat Pournima in a public garden. Though a small incident, it was published in a leading local news paper, as to inspire all of us to make effort for green future of the next generation. 

I still remember the day. There were few children playing in that garden accompanied by their parents. Watching a little girl planting a sapling, they all gathered around her and there started a conversation. Couple of them were just standing out of curiosity. Few started discussing about the decreased tree cover of Nashik. Apparently, out of them, one fine lady had no liking for Banyan and she was apprehensive about the spreading roots of Banyan which could disturb the foundation of adjacent buildings. Quite the contrary, the younger generation was in favor of Banyan tree as thy couldn't easily spot one in that garden with majority of introduced 'alien' trees. 

I had to explain the lady that the residential buildings are at least 40 meters away from this very plantation site, and in fact she need not to worry as it may take minimum 2 or 3 centuries to grow this Banyan that big. I also urged her that we should gift & preserve such trees for our next generation so that they also understand the importance of Native species.

The young brigade not only offered a helping hand, but few of them also committed to water the sapling regularly. Their faces were radiant enough with the joy of planting a tree. It was a signal to all the adults that instead of doing just the talking, we actually did it! Meanwhile, my father, Dr Prashant Phalak used to look after it periodically. I, personally, visited the spot four months back. That time, the sapling was very much good in condition. 

Last week, I happened to be there with my niece. And trust me, I was astonished to see that the Banyan has grown beyond 5 feet in less than a year! My niece was also delighted to see it growing so fast.

Love & care from young ones was more powerful than apprehension and fear of adults. It was that love which must have nurtured the sapling, I guess! Indeed, love can do miracles!

Today is 6th anniversary of 'Gifting Trees...' During last year, We have planted 12 saplings. And I promise you all, we will soon cross 300...may be on this Environment Day itself. Let there be love for Native trees everywhere...always!!!

Compost : From Garbage to Garden...

From last post, we have come to know that for solid waste management, there is no throwing ‘away’. The solid waste can be out of our sight, but not out of our environment. Everything we are doing to manage the waste is directly or indirectly affecting us and our ecosystem through pollution.

Composting is a great way of recycling unwanted food scraps & yard waste into a useful garden additive. There is a bit of work involved in composting, but the extra effort well is worth the resulting nutrient rich soil amendment. 

There are many different ways to make compost, with no one method being right or wrong. Many people will try to tell you the ‘proper’ way to compost. But the fact is good compost can be achieved with whatever materials you have available; provided it is biodegradable and free of chemicals, disease or other toxins.

As I previously said, there is no right or wrong way to compost. However, there are good & bad things to compost. Try your own mix of ingredients until you find a recipe that works for you.

The tree leaves that accumulate in and around your landscape represent a valuable natural resource that can be used to provide a good source of organic matter and nutrients for use in your landscape. I have seen many urban dwellers who want to get rid of these fallen leaves. Rather they consider these leaves as nuisance. Either they burn them or send these leaves to dumping yard. Being both of the ways wrong, You must remember that there is no word as ‘waste’ in Mother Nature’s dictionary. Everything that comes from Nature has to go back or it will harm us all. The leaves needs to composted and given back to our soil. It is an established fact that the trees in one acre of forest shed as much as two tons of leaves each year. You may complain that your neighborhood outdoes any forest, but be thankful. Save your leaves. And if your neighbors don’t want them, hang on to theirs. It makes no sense to send valuable treasure to the dump or to burn them!

In forests, sacred groves (देवराई) and pastures, tree leaves and other organic wastes form a natural carpet over the soil surface which conserves moisture, modifies temperatures and prevents soil erosion and crusting. In time, bacteria, fungi and other natural occurring organisms decompose or compost the leaves and other organic material, supplying the existing plants with a natural, slow release form of nutrients. You can, and must, take advantage of this same concept. 

It may be a long process, but I can’t think of any one reason not to make compost for use in your garden. It’s free, simple to do and made from a resource that is never in short supply.

There isn’t anything much easier than making leaf mold. If you have some space in your garden, this is a good way to start composting. While making leaf mold, one can add their kitchen scraps to the pile. This way, he/she can reduce the amount of waste (or a resource!) going to dumping yard.

You want to begin by making sure the leaves are thoroughly moistened. Dry leaves begin to lose nitrogen and this will slow the process of decomposition. There are a few ways to turn leafs into one of the most valuable additives you could put in your soil.

Be sure to mix more brown materials than green materials into your pile to prevent terrible odors. That means you should add more dried stuff such as dried leaves, stalks or straw than the green stuff like fresh yard trimmings, Kitchen vegetable scraps, Weeds, Dead houseplants, Garden debris and cow/horse manure. 

The materials like diseased plants, Meat, bones or fish, glossy paper etc should never be added to a compost pile.

An easy ambitious method is to make a 3 feet by 3 feet cage using stakes & wire. You just have to pile up the leaves in the cage. To ensure even decomposition it is advised to turn the pile occasionally. Always sprinkle water if pile starts to dry. Or you can also rake your leaves into a pile in your yard and leave them there for a year or so. Remember to cover green scraps by dried leaves.

If you have a proper condition for earthworm’s proliferation, then you can get your compost within a really short period of time. Vermi-composting is a way to make high quality compost using earthworms. Worms are food eating machines. Once you have an active worm bin, your kitchen scrapes will quickly become a nutrient rich organic fertilizer.

Some urbanites residing in apartments may excuse that they do not have space required for composting. They can use method which usually consisting of aerated Matkas or drums. There are many NGOs or shops selling these types of compact composting units which can easily fit in your balcony or terrace. One has to have the will, then only there will be a way! Watch this video of Vani Murthy, who composts in her own apartment.

Once the leaf mold is ready, you can use it in many ways. Leaf mold is one of the best soil conditioners, it helps to loosen the soil, making it less dense & easier for roots to penetrate and take up nutrients.

Soil Enrichment - Leaf mulch returns nutrients back to the soil. Your plants and garden will require less or no fertilizer and other additives.

Water Conservation - Leaf mulch helps retain moisture in soils. When soil is covered with leaf mulch, the mulch lowers the soil’s exposure to sun and wind which reduces evaporation.

Save Money - By managing your biodegradable waste on site, you eliminate the costs of pick up & transport and fuel to landfill, making you a more responsible earth inhabitant. 

Insulation - Mulch acts like an insulating barrier from the heat in the summer, from the cold in the winter and from the wind all year round. Mulch prevents compaction and erosion of soils from wind and rain.

Weed Control - Leaf mulch can help prevent the growth of weeds. Add a thick layer (2 to 3 inches) to gardens to reduce the need for herbicides.

With all these great uses why not turn your kitchen and yard waste into a free source of all natural nutrient rich soil additive/fertilizer..?! Composting is a growing solution to solid waste management. Today, knowledge and interest in the science of composting is increasing dramatically. Whether an ancient art or a modern science, composting is a useful and environmentally sound gardening practice for you.

Because Every Day is Environment Day for Him!

This Environment Day was no different for us. As for any Nature lover, everyday is Environment day! Dr Prashant Phalak's thoughts are no different. His love for trees is so captivating and appealing that people around him too start loving trees. That includes me too! :)

I remember..due to government service of my father, we have been shifted to numerous cities and villages during my childhood. Frankly, I hated this as I have to leave my school, friends & everything. I hated this from the bottom of my heart. Eventually, I used to forget all these things though. But I vividly remember one thing, that wherever we had been shifted, my father used to plant there number of saplings. Trees near residential quarters, near hospital and wherever possible. Obviously the plantation was followed by watering & nurturing till we move to another place. How many trees planted, nobody knows..even he don't know!

Today, when I count the saplings we plant; he advises not to count them. Mother Nature never does that. She give us countless things selflessly. Not demanding anything in return! But the statistics are necessary for follow up. And while being proud of my father; for others to get inspired, I continue to mention the numbers..! :)

One thing I would like to share with you all, in recent couple of years we got a chance to visit few of those places. The places where once we used to live. And my father made sure to show me all the saplings planted by him, which have grown up into big trees. Just like when one meets an old friend after a decade or two, he was admiring the trees with sparkling eyes. I felt WOW, just couldn't express that moment in words!

Even a small word of appreciation is enough to make one's day. This 5th June, Dr Prashant Phalak, the inspiration and motivation behind Gifting Trees...; is awarded with Paryavaran Puraskaar. It is an award which is given to the individuals who have done remarkable work for the benefit of our environment. On the great occasion of World Environment Day, he was awarded by Honorable Minster (Environment and Cultural Affairs) Mr Sanjay Deotale. The news is covered by couple of leading News Papers.

Cheers to his spirit! Cheers to his love for trees!! A big thank you to all the tree lovers, friends and supporters!!!

‘Vasanta’ - The King of Ritus

Vasant is a Ritu...Indian season which represents Spring. Indian year which is based on Moon is made up of six Ritus…namely Vasant, Grishma, Varsha, Sharad, Hemant, and Shishir. Though each & every Ritu has her own beauty; I think Vasant is the most fabulous amongst all. In this season, Mother Nature shows off her tremendous beauty. 

The beginning of Vasant Ritu fills pleasure in each & every particle of Nature. Blooming trees, shrubs & climbers and the aroma pleases our mind. Hence the season have remained all time favorite Ritu for many ancient writer and poets. Kalidasa was undoubtedly one of the greatest poets in classical Sanskrit literature. Vasant Ritu when sets in, there is a sense of excitement in the air - the romance, the jolliness, Nature’s finest manifestation in all her beauty- Vasanta, as Kalidasa calls it, is certainly the 'Rituraaja' - the king of seasons.

Vasant and Beauty of Nature has an inseparable inter-connection. It is time for every bush and tree to spring to life with blooms & bursts of colour and fragrance, vibrant as sparklers in festivals.

Indian rich heritage and mythology have wonderfully described the importance of Vasant. Lord Krishna says in the Bhagwad Gita that in all seasons, He is the Vasant. The festival of Vasant is celebrated in India on the fifth day of the Shukla Paksha and so is called Vasant Panchami; but the concept behind it goes deeper than mere calculation of the days of the moon. To understand the true significance of the festival it would be instructive to understand the essence of Goddess Saraswati, the presiding deity of learning, aesthetics and creativity. 

One thing important to note is Vasant or spring do not begin at once across the length & breadth of our country. For instance, in Maharashtra, Vasant season is approximately from 16 February to 15 April; whereas In North states, the Ritu visits a bit later. After mid-April, here starts the Grishma Ritu. In Maharashtra, number of trees like Palash, Mango, Pongam, Indian Rosewood, Java Plum, Mahua, Sorrowless tree, Semal, Indian Siris, Pride of  India, Gamhar, Sonpattta, Indian Coral tree etc bloom in Vasant Ritu only. According to me, it is the best season to visit forests or sanctuaries to view these flowering beauties. The flower is a beautiful symbol of life & regeneration as it leads to seed and then to another plant. Hence Vasant is also known as Kusumakara.  

In Vasant, the gardens are bustling with activity - the constant droning of the bees, the chirping of the birds, the call of the Asian Koel and the constant rustling of the leaves. The pleasant warm sunshine and the breeze set up a highly romantic atmosphere. Vasanta is also known as “Madhumaasa“, which brings lovers together...forever! With all the beauty and fragrance of Vasant Ritu in mind, here are we celebrating 'Gifting Trees...'s 4th anniversary. Is that a coincidence? I think not... :D

In last year, we have planted 7 native trees. Though we have saved couple of plants, sadly we lost few previously planted trees due construction works in the premises. So we replaced them with these new saplings. In summer one has to take extra care of the planted sapling. Last years we experienced few surprises too! Earlier we used water the plants and so we had some days devoted for watering. On some of the watering days, we found few of the saplings near a building were already watered...

"Wow!"

Not because it saved our efforts...but for few have understood the importance of native trees in urban areas! :)

Our Ecosystems : Trees!

Gifting Trees... turns three today. So fast time flies! When we look back at our journey with trees and with all you readers, it bring us immense joy that more & more tree-lovers are not only asking about native trees, but also trying to plant a few. We would like thank all of them for their love and support!

Few readers also asked us whether we do it for money or as a business. We are sorry for disappointing them as our prime motto is to spread awareness about Native trees & Green Living; and not to earn money! :)

I, personally, am really sorry for not writing any post in last few months. I was busy in my professional work. Also I just don't want to repeat the similar facts/things which are published in previous posts. Instead, I would like to have some reciprocation from you guys if you want to know anything more. May it be any native tree or anything else related to Mother Nature. Like, one of the readers asked me about 'How bad is Plastic?' There definitely will be a post in upcoming time, throwing some light on this very subject. Few readers also suggested to have more articles on native trees. "Sure..!" :)

In last year, We have planted 15 native saplings and saved a Acacia & a Jujube tree from felling. How many trees have you..? Let there be few native trees dedicated to your loved ones..! Because these trees silently teach us many important lessons. Have a heart like trees and learn how to be grateful to the ones who have ever helped you.

Trees love us selflessly, they grow, fight against adversities and dedicate their whole life serving us. But instead of expressing our gratitude, we cut them down insensibly.

They are one of the greatest resources of the Mother Earth and the most gracious & faithful company. They offer shelter, delicious foods and beautiful life, give us fresh strength by purifying air and teach us wise lessons to live a happy and motivated life. They serve humanity in every possible way only to return our single help of seeding them. Today, we have distinct sympathy with nature...we no more feel their pain when we tear their leaves, no more hear the scream when we chop them down, no more hear the part of their joy when its raining; which leads us to accomplish the most shameful acts such as deforestation and our own destruction.

If you love trees, show it and act likewise! Just remember these line by an unknown author... “We say we love flowers, yet we pluck them. We say we love trees, yet we cut them down. And people still wonder why some are afraid when told they are loved..!”

We TWO!

In the soaring heat of May, we are experiencing a cool breeze. How? Yes, here are we again..celebrating Gifting Trees...'s second anniversary.

Marking the two years of Gifting Trees, we are adding a new segment in conserving native trees... Tree Rescue!

This is the status of our sacred native trees, isn't it? WE all, educated illiterates (पढ़ेलिखे गवार, साक्षर अनाडी) are busy in widening our highways, we are moving to big cities. And so we are cutting these trees which were planted by our forefathers. But we can't see the importance of our sacred native trees. May be hence we are habituated to plant introduced trees. But Mother Nature haven't..! She knows what's right and what's wrong. She keeps trying to plant these sacred trees with the help of birds.

But do we allow to grow trees on our walls or midway on the roads? No, we cut them. But there is another way to have these blessings of Mother Nature. We just have to transplant these saplings to a right place where the sapling can take roots freely and flourish. For example, Banyan, Peepal, Cluster Figs are species which can be seen growing on walls, buildings. Eventually either the growing saplings die due to lack of water/space or are cut/removed by humans for obvious reason. What we can do is just to transplant them carefully alongside of roads, near residential area or near a temple.

Similarly at the end of summer or just in the beginning of rains, trees like Neem, Jamun, Pongam, Ber etc have numerous seedlings grown beneath them due to their fallen fruits/seeds. Practically, it is very difficult to survive & grow under a big tree and its not advisable to just let these seedlings grow, especially in urban areas. These seedlings can easily be transferred to polybags to grow and then can be used for plantation.

We two, my father and me, have rescued about 45 saplings/seedlings till date and successfully planted few of them too! Also as today is our 2nd anniversary, we are pleased to announce that in this last year, we have planted (and grown) 18 saplings and taken care of them along with those of the previously planted.

5th May also is the Climate Impacts Day. Is that a co-incidence?! Lets Come together and Connect the dots.