On September 13, SIB planted 650 trees and creepers at Sondekoppa Village lake as a Centenary Project. NSS students of R.V. Engineering College took up the task of planting 650 saplings and agreed to maintain the trees. Some plants included mahogany, teak, pongamia, Couroupita guianensis, neem, silver oak, moringa and ficus, with environmental and medicinal properties. SIB partnered with RV College, as it had space for plantation, while its NSS students would maintain plants.
The project not only seeks to improve the environment but also gives the villagers medicinal plants. Dr Prathibha, a botanist and SIB member, spoke about SI, its Centenary celebrations, the significance and benefits of tree planting and the functions and uses of trees. It was appreciated by an official from the Department Of Environment, the Principal of R.V. Engineering College, and by the Panchayat Development Officer. The programme was well-covered on DD Chandana. (Doordarshan news channel)