Chamarajanagar district secured the top spot in Karnataka’s social forestry initiative during the sapling plantation drive on the International Day of Democracy, September 15. The district excelled in categories such as the highest number of saplings planted, NGO involvement, and private company participation, outpacing Shivamogga and Bidar, which ranked second and third, respectively.
Over 26,000 participants, including students, government employees, private sector workers, NGO members, and elected representatives, formed a 24-km human chain from Mugur Cross to Ramasamudra, planting thousands of saplings along the way. Saplings were also distributed by the Forest Department and planted in schools, government offices, and other vacant spaces.
A Bengaluru-based team assessed the efforts, awarding Chamarajanagar the first prize. Deputy Commissioner Shilpa Nag and Zilla Panchayat CEO Mona Roth received the honor from CM Siddaramaiah in Bengaluru, alongside ministers HC Mahadevappa and Byrathi Suresh.
“This recognition motivates us to enhance green initiatives in Chamarajanagar, which already boasts 48% forest cover, aiding wildlife preservation, groundwater rejuvenation, and biodiversity,” said Mona Roth.
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