The Jindal Foundation, the social arm of Jindal Steel, has undertaken a massive tree plantation drive across India, planting 75,000 saplings to commemorate Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday. In Odisha, the foundation joined the state government’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0” initiative, planting 55,000 saplings under the guidance of Naveen Jindal, Chairman of Jindal Steel. The plantation drive was conducted across the foundation’s operational sites in Angul, Barbil, Tensa, and Kasia, involving thousands of employees, women self-help groups, farmers’ clubs, community members, students, and volunteers.
The drive also saw participation from government officers, teachers, nature lovers, and local panchayat members. Notably, the saplings planted were fruit-bearing trees and plants with medicinal value, ensuring long-term ecological, health, and nutritional benefits for the communities. In Angul, the foundation planted saplings in Benagadia and Derjang villages, covering over 20 acres of land. Similar community plantation drives were conducted in Barbil, Tensa, and Kasia, covering four gram panchayats and planting 12,000 saplings.
Shallu Jindal, Chairperson of Jindal Foundation, expressed pride in being part of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, which combines environmental responsibility with a sacred emotional connection to one’s mother. The foundation’s efforts aim to promote environmental sustainability and community development, while also fostering a sense of social responsibility among its employees and stakeholders. By planting trees with medicinal and nutritional value, the foundation hopes to create a positive impact on the environment and the communities it serves. The initiative is a significant step towards promoting environmental conservation and sustainable development in the region.