Sikkim, a small state in the Himalayas, has always been at the forefront of environmental protection. It is renowned for being the first organic state in India and the world, meaning that all the food produced in Sikkim is pesticide-free. The state has taken a remarkable step to strengthen the relationship between nature and local communities by introducing an innovative initiative called &ldquoMero Rukh Mero Santati&rdquo (My Tree My Child). The government-run program entails planting 100 trees for every newborn baby in Sikkim, making it one of the pioneering efforts in the Eastern Himalayas. This program recognizes the need to mitigate the global climate crisis and can potentially change the approach to environmental conservation in the Eastern Himalayas, promoting a renewed connection with nature.
About Mero Rukh Mero Santati
The government&rsquos &ldquoMero Rukh Mero Santati&rdquo initiative is expected to sequester approximately 2.2 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) per year for each newborn. This will effectively offset India&rsquos estimated per capita CO2 emissions, currently around 1.9 metric tons.
How Does It Work
Parents (within the state) can register to participate in this voluntary program by sending a simple greeting such as &ldquohi&rdquo or &ldquohello&rdquo to a designated WhatsApp number. They will then receive a link to fill out a form. After completing the registration process, parents will receive a congratulatory message from the Chief Minister via mobile or email. During registration, parents will provide their preferences for the species, the number of plants, and the location for tree planting. The Forest Department will contact parents during the favourable plantation season or &ldquoSantati Saptah&rdquo in July based on the provided information.
The program allows tree planting in private, community, or nearby forests. Many parents from Namchi, Gangtok, Pakyong, Soreng, and Mangan districts have already enrolled under this initiative.
Sikkim As A Tourist Destination
The state&rsquos commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable practices has earned its recognition among many eco-conscious travellers. One of the green tourist attractions in Sikkim that draws visitors from around the world is the Khangchendzonga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Encompassing a vast area of 1784 square kilometres, this expanse of wilderness is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species like the snow leopard and red panda. Additionally, the park boasts numerous high-altitude lakes, gushing waterfalls, and sprawling meadows that offer a surreal experience of nature&rsquos unblemished beauty.
The Temi Tea Garden also represents Sikkim&rsquos thriving plantation culture. Established in 1969, it is the sole tea estate in the state, situated on the slopes of Tendong Hill. The garden&rsquos manicured tea bushes adorn the landscape, and visitors can witness the intricate process of tea plucking and processing.
Cover Photo Credits Shutterstock
