In a bid to enhance green
cover and promote environmental sustainability, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa
Fisheries University, in collaboration with Green Needa, inaugurated a palmyra
seed planting drive on Saturday 26 Oct on the university campus. N. Felix, Vice-Chancellor,
officially launched the drive by planting the first seed.
Mr. Felix highlighted the
ecological significance of palmyra trees, recognised as Tamil Nadu’s state tree
and a longstanding symbol of Tamil heritage. Known for their resilience,
palmyra trees can survive harsh storms and extract groundwater for nourishment,
requiring minimal maintenance.
Green Needa, an organisation
dedicated to palmyra conservation, has been actively raising awareness of the
tree’s environmental benefits.
Addressing the encroachment
and loss of natural habitats for palmyra due to urban expansion, Mr. Felix
emphasised the importance of such initiatives for restoring palmyra populations
and educating the public on their value.
The event was attended by M.
Rajakumar, University Registrar, Rajavel, Chief Coordinator of Green Needa, and
other officials, staff, Green Needa volunteers, and university students.