RASHTRIYA AVISHKAR SAPTAH (RAS) 2024-2025

TREE PLANTATION DRIVE

GUIDELINES
Introduction
Tree plantation is a vital activity for sustaining the environment. Trees play a
crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, improving air quality, and
providing habitat for wildlife. They act as natural air filters, absorbing carbon
dioxide, and releasing oxygen, which is essential for all living beings.
Additionally, trees help prevent soil erosion, conserve water, and mitigate
climate change effects. Tree plantation is immensely important from the point
of view of the overall development of children as a responsible citizen with
sensitivity to the environment. Engaging in tree planting activities would
create environmental awareness, in terms of its vital role in maintaining
ecological balance, absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen besides
supporting biodiversity. It will also provide hands-on learning experiences,
allowing children to gain practical knowledge about biology and ecology in a
memorable way. Caring for newly planted trees instills a sense of
responsibility and encourages a greater appreciation for nurturing living
things. Additionally, outdoor activities like tree planting promote physical
health and enhance mental well-being by reducing stress and providing a
sense of accomplishment. These activities also build teamwork and
collaboration skills, fostering a sense of community feeling among students.
The trees planted by children serve as a living legacy, reinforcing the idea that
their actions can make a long-lasting and positive impact on society. Thus,
incorporating tree plantation into school activities enriches students'
educational experiences and helps them grow into environmentally conscious
and responsible individuals.
In alignment with the Hon’ble Prime Minister's initiative to emphasize tree
plantation in the name of the mother, "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" this year's theme
for Rashtriya Avishkar Saptah (RAS) encompasses activities focused on
“Promotion of tree plantation and water conservation.” The following
guidelines pertain to the tree plantation activity in the first phase to be
undertaken by school students of classes 5th to 12th. Guidelines for the
promotion of water conservation shall be available on the NCERT website
soon.
Planting local trees holds significant importance for both the environment and
the community. Local tree species are well-adapted to the region's climate,
soil, and ecosystem, which ensures their healthy growth and sustainability.
These trees provide essential habitats and food sources for native wildlife,
promoting biodiversity and supporting the balance of local ecosystems. By
planting local trees, we also preserve the genetic heritage of the area,
maintaining the unique characteristics and resilience of indigenous plant
species. Local trees are typically more resistant to local pests and diseases,
reducing the use of chemical fertilizers and promoting a healthier
environment. They contribute to the stability of the soil, preventing erosion
and enhancing soil fertility through natural leaf litter and organic matter.
Additionally, local trees often require less maintenance, making them more
efficient and cost-effective for urban and rural landscaping projects.
Furthermore, planting local trees fosters a sense of community and
connection to the land. It encourages students to learn about and appreciate
their natural surroundings, instilling a sense of pride and stewardship. This
community involvement can lead to increased environmental awareness and
collective efforts to protect and preserve local ecosystems.
Role of students

• Who can participate: Students from classes 5th to 12 th can participate

in the tree plantation drive.
• Active Participation: Planting trees, watering them, and ensuring their
growth.
• Learning and Education: Gaining knowledge about different types of
trees, their benefits, and how to take care of them.
• Community Involvement: Encouraging community members to
participate and educating them on the importance of tree plantation.
• Environmental Stewardship: Developing a sense of responsibility
towards the environment and adopting sustainable practices.

Role of teachers

• Guidance and Supervision: Guiding students in the correct techniques

of planting and caring for trees.
• Organizing the event: Coordinating the tree plantation drives and
related activities within the school and community.
• Mentorship: Serving as role models in environmental conservation and
inspiring students to take initiative.
• Planning and Execution: Both students and teachers can collaborate in
planning the tree plantation drive, selecting appropriate sites, and
ensuring the necessary resources are available.
• Monitoring and Maintenance: Establishing a system to regularly
monitor the growth of the planted trees and address any issues that
arise.

Steps for tree plantation

Planting a tree involves several steps to ensure its healthy growth and long-
term survival. Here are the key steps for a successful tree plantation:
1. Select the Right Sapling: Choose a tree species that is well-suited to the
local climate, soil, and environmental conditions. Native or local tree
species are often the best choice. Talk to teachers, elders and grandparents
to know which tree grows best in your area. You may also contact the local
forest department office or a nursery in your nearby locality. Schools are
expected to facilitate such consultation. You can select plants like Teak,
Tamarind, Peepal, Banyan, etc., and avoid planting shrubs such as Rose,
Hibiscus, Jasmine, Banana plant, Henna, etc. Students should explore the
local name and the botanical name of the sapling and the same may be
reported in the Google form. However, names of the trees given above are
suggestive. Schools may choose trees as per local habitat of the area.
2. Number of saplings to be planted: Plant at least 10 to 15 saplings in the
school campus or nearby areas in the locality where there is proper light,
water facilities and also where children can take care of them.
3. Choose the Planting Site: Identify a suitable location with good soil
quality for planting the sapling in your school/ neighbourhood with the
help of your teacher. Ensure the site has enough space for the sapling to
grow to its mature size without obstruction from buildings, power lines, or
other trees. Check the soil quality and drainage to make sure it is suitable
for the chosen tree species. If the current site exhibits poor soil conditions,
such as being classified as Barren land i.e., Banjar or Osar Bhumi,
remedial action is required. Specifically, a larger planting pit should be dug
and filled with fertile soil procured from an external, more suitable
location. This approach will provide a more appropriate environment for
tree growth and health.
4. Prepare the Soil: Clear the planting area of weeds, grass, and debris.
Loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches to help the plant’s roots
establish. If necessary, mix in compost or organic matter to improve soil
fertility. Take pictures of this step.
5. Dig the Pit: Dig a pit which is two to three times wider than the plant’s
root ball and just as deep. This will help the roots to spread and establish
themselves. Make sure that an adult person supervises the activity and
take pictures of this step to upload on the Google form.
6. Remove the Tree sapling from Its Container: Gently remove the tree
sapling if it has a container or plastic wrapping. If the roots are tightly
bound, carefully loosen them to help them in outward growth.
7. Place the Sapling in the Pit: Carefully position the tree sapling in the
center of the pit. Ensure the top of the root ball is in level with or slightly
above the soil to prevent waterlogging. Take pictures of this step.
8. Backfill the Pit: Fill the pit with the soil gently. Water the soil to help settle
it around the roots. Take pictures after completing this step.
9. Water the plants: Water the plants appropriately after planting. This helps
settle the soil and provides essential moisture to the roots.
10. Mulch Around the Plant: Apply a layer of mulch (dried leaves, straw, etc.)
around the base of the plant, extending out to the drip line. Mulch helps
retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Keep the
mulch a few inches away from the plant to prevent rot.
11. Protect the plant from grazing: If you have planted the tree in areas
within the reach of grazing animals make sure the plant is protected using
some eco-friendly twigs, bamboo sticks, etc. around the plant. Take
pictures of the plant after completing the step.
12. Stake the plant (if necessary): If the plant is in a windy area or has a
weak stem, stake it for support. Use soft ties to secure the plant to the
stakes, allowing some movement to encourage strong trunk growth.
13. Water Regularly: Ensure the plant receives regular watering, especially
during the first few years until it establishes its root system.
14. Monitor and Maintain: Keep an eye on the health and growth of the plant.
Prune any dead or damaged branches, and watch for signs of pests or
diseases. Continue to water and mulch as needed. Take pictures of your
tree every week to record the progress.
Following steps will help ensure your plant grows into a healthy and thriving
part of the landscape. Make sure to take pictures of the tree at every step.

Precautions to be followed while planting

1. Wear Appropriate Clothing: Ensure to use long sleeves, and sturdy

shoes to protect against thorns and insects.
2. Be Mindful of Allergies: Be aware of any allergie(s) you may have for
plants or insects. Take necessary precautions, such as using insect
repellent or wearing protective clothing.
3. Respect Wildlife: Be aware of and respect any wildlife you may
encounter during the planting process.
4. Seek Supervision: If you are unsure about any aspect of tree planting,
seek guidance from your teacher or someone experienced to ensure
safety and proper technique.
5. Avoid Overwatering: Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging,
which can suffocate roots.
6. Handle Roots Carefully: Be gentle when handling roots to avoid
damaging them, as healthy roots are crucial for the tree's survival.
7. Avoid Planting Too Deep: Do the plantation at an appropriate depth
so that the root collar is slightly above ground level, as planting too deep
may lead to the decaying of roots.
8. Protect Against Wildlife: Use tree guards or fencing to protect young
plants from grazing animals, such as cows, goats, rabbits, etc.
9. Use of Manure/Fertilizers: As far as possible, children should be
encouraged to use manure or compost instead of chemical fertilizers as
it is natural and chemical fertilizers can harm the tree and the
surrounding environment.
10. Monitor Growth: Regularly inspect the tree for signs of stress, disease,
or pest infestation, and take appropriate action promptly.
11. Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly after handling
soil or plants to remove any potential contaminants.
 PROCEDURE FOR FILLING GOOGLE FORM

Filling up Google Form is very easy. You need to have a Gmail account
for filling this Google form

1. Once you have a working Google ID (Gmail), you can open any
browser and copy/ type the following URL into browser:

https://forms.gle/d3cgziGfnPsidnoCA

2. Click on fill out form on the front page.

3. It will take you to the Section 1 where you need to enter personal
details.
4. After clicking on Next button, you will be taken to Section 2 of the
Form, where you have to fill your State, District and School details
like School Name, Address etc.
5. After clicking on Next button, you will proceed to Section 3 of the
Form. In this section, you have to fill the data for Activity.
6. After this, you have to click on Submit button to finally submit your
Form.

Note: You can check your responses again by clicking on the Back
button before making Final submission. No changes can be made after
Final submission of the Form.

7. After submission, a message will be received “Your response has

been recorded”.

8. After this, you may close the window/ tab of your web browser.

For any assistance/ support, kindly email us at:

desmncertras2024@gmail.com