Plant sapling to welcome your newborn, say greens

UDUPI: Environmentalists are urging new parents to plant a tree whenever they bring their child home. A campaign to this effect was launched by Sastana Mitra, a social activist, here on Sunday. Mitra said, “The date April 1 reminds everyone of All Fool’s Day and on this day people spend time trying to fool others. Instead, they can plant a tree and serve nature.”
The campaign was launched by first time parents Mrs Reshma and Vishal, who welcomed their new born at their residence in Kannarpadi , Udupi by planting a tree. Vishal said, “The scorching summer has started already and we are happy to be the first couple to take part in the initiative. All parents should do it for a better future of their child.”
“We have distributed brochures about the campaign at hospitals in the district. Parents were made aware about the need of plants to live a healthy life. Most of the parents agreed with the policy and promised to plant a tree in the name of their baby and we will provide them the needed support. In each home, when a baby is born, a sapling should be planted. Birthdays could also be celebrated by planting saplings,” Vinay Chandra, Mitra’s friend.