Minister launches State-wide drive to plant 1 cr palm seeds

The Tamil Nadu government, in collaboration with non-governmental organisations, has launched a State-wide drive to plant one crore palm seeds. The initiative is aimed at strengthening the bunds of waterbodies and preventing soil erosion. Minister for Rural Development-Panchayat Raj and Water Resources N. Anand inaugurated the drive at Devariyambakkam village panchayat in Kancheepuram district on Thursday. The drive will be carried out in 37 districts, excluding the Nilgiris, in collaboration with Green Needa, ExNoRa International, National Social Service, and National Cadet Corps. About one lakh NSS students will participate in the drive. The seeds will be sourced from the Palm Seeds Banks established in 100 colleges and planted along the bunds of waterbodies across the
State. The initiative aims at increasing the number of palm trees in the State to strengthen the bunds of waterbodies, support groundwater recharge, and enhance the production of value-added palm products. It is also expected to improve livelihood opportunities for people who depend on palm-based occupations. Kancheepuram Collector D. Sneha; Uthiramerur MLA J. Munirathinam; president of ExNoRa International S. Senthur Paari; and chief coordinator of Green Needa M. Rajavelu took part in the event on
Thursday.