Mangaluru: The city of Mangaluru recently hosted a felicitation ceremony, Amara, to honor the dedicated individuals and organizations who have made exceptional contributions to the ongoing tree sapling planting initiatives across the region. The event, held at the Centre for Advanced Learning (CFAL), Mangaluru, underscored the critical importance of environmental conservation and recognized the tireless efforts of these unsung heroes.

The Amara program was graced by the esteemed presence of Smt. Revathi Kamath, a landscaper and environmentalist, who served as the Chief Guest. In her inspiring address, she commended the dedication of the contributors and emphasized the profound impact of their work on the restoration of local lake ecosystems and the broader environment. Also in attendance were Additional Deputy Commissioner Dr. G. Santhosh Kumar, KAS, Mrs. Ashwini Muhilan, and popular RJ Nayana, adding to the significance of the occasion.

Among those felicitated for their remarkable contributions were Mr. Jeeth Milan Roche, Mrs. Ashwini K. Bhat, and Mr. Kishore Attavar. The program also recognized the significant involvement of the Mangalore Rotary Club, with its President Mr. Ganesh Kodlamogaru, Ex-President Mr. Madhav Suvarna, and Assistant Governor (Zone 3) Dr. Ranjan R. K. being honored. Corporate efforts were acknowledged with the felicitation of Mr. Dilesh and Ms. Veenadhari K. from Incture Technologies. Academic institutions were well represented, with Dr. Steevan D’Souza from AIMIT College, Prof. Shripriya from Dr. M.V. Shetty Institute of Allied Health Sciences, and NSS students from Swastika National Business School receiving accolades.

The felicitation ceremony celebrated the milestones achieved in increasing the green cover of Mangaluru, acknowledging the hard work, passion, and commitment of volunteers, community groups, and various stakeholders. Their collective efforts have not only enhanced the natural beauty of the region but also taken the first crucial steps toward combating climate change and promoting ecological balance.

The event was hosted by Mr. Vijay Moras, Trustee of CFAL, and Prof. Dr. Smitha Hegde. Organizers expressed their gratitude to all participants and volunteers, highlighting the success of the tree planting drives, which led to the successful planting of 7,912 trees and woody shrubs. The Amara program served as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when individuals come together for a common, noble cause.

The event concluded with a renewed pledge to continue and expand tree planting efforts, fostering a deeper connection between the community and nature, and ensuring a healthier, greener legacy for future generations in Mangaluru.