3,000 Trees, Four Plantation Days: Growing a Miyawaki Forest at Saraswati Mahavidyalaya
A thriving forest is built through collective effort, careful planning, and a shared commitment to nature. At Shri Saraswati Mahavidyalaya, Abhva, Surat, this vision became reality as Grow Native Green Forum, its Green Saarthis, and supporting organizations came together to create a 3,000-tree Miyawaki forest comprising more than 40 species. What began in August culminated in a memorable milestone on 4 October 2026.
A Journey That Began in August
The plantation journey unfolded over four Sundays. During the first two visits, on 16 and 23 August 2026, volunteers planted a total of 2,000 trees. The work continued on 27 September, when another 500 trees were planted, followed by the final 500 on 4 October. Together, these efforts completed the 3,000-tree forest, representing months of preparation, collaboration, and dedicated service.
The Little Green Sarthis Lead by Example
On 27 September, the morning began at the crack of dawn, accompanied by the calls of peacocks and the rising sun. The team set out to plant 500 trees, but the task presented a few challenges. Saplings and manure were stored some distance from the planting area; approximately 100 pits were ready, and the remaining pits still needed to be dug.
The younger participants’ enthusiasm soon inspired everyone. Nitya, Hari, Devansh, Param, and Pari worked tirelessly to transport saplings and manure to the plantation site. Their contribution reminded everyone that environmental responsibility has no age limit.
500 More Trees Adding to the Forest
On Sunday, 4 October 2026, the 500 more trees were planted, bringing the total to 3,000. Under the guidance of school trustee and driving force Yogitaben Sharda, this four-phase initiative brought together several partners:
Rotary Seaface and Paridrishya: 1,000 trees
Fit Hub: 1,000 trees
Surat Tennis Club: 500 trees
SVNIT Alumni Association: 500 trees
Their combined support helped establish a diverse Miyawaki forest with more than 40 species, contributing to the development of a greener and more biodiverse environment on the school grounds.
Gratitude for Every Helping Hand
A plantation of this scale depends on far more than the people placing saplings in the ground. Green Saarthis contributed by collecting saplings from different nurseries, transporting them to the site, arranging manure, twine and supports, digging pits with machinery, and carrying out the planting work.
Special appreciation goes to Maharshi and Hetalbhai, who tirelessly documented the campaign through photography and videography. Thanks are also due to the donors supporting the initiative through Pitru Tarpan, and to Nikunjbhai and Nayanaben, who manage GNGF’s social media channels from Pune with dedication. Kinjalben and Jyotsnaben continue to care for the nursery, while Nareshbhai Patel remains a dependable source of support whenever urgent needs arise.
Special thanks to Rohini, Amarsinhbhai, Surendrabhai, Bhumitbhai, and every member who joined the kitchen team to serve us energy drinks, tea, and delicious breakfast.
Above all, heartfelt gratitude goes to every Green Saarthi, volunteer, partner, and supporter who contributed directly or behind the scenes.
Three thousand trees, more than 40 species, and countless acts of service—this forest is a living testament to what a committed community can achieve together. The work does not end with planting; consistent care will help these trees grow into a lasting green legacy for future generations. 🌳💚
