Chikkamagaluru: Thousands of saplings were planted in govt schools across Sringeri, Koppa and NR Pura taluks on World Environment Day Friday.In the Sringeri assembly segment, the day was marked by the forest department, education department and Sringeri Kshetra Raita Okkutta planting saplings.The Okkutta, led by Gaddemane Vishwanath, supplied different varieties of saplings to govt-run schools. Members, along with officials and school students, planted a total of 5,000 saplings across 172 govt schools in the segment.Vishwanath Gaddemane said that it is everyone’s responsibility to contribute towards the environment and that sustainable development is needed to ensure a healthy atmosphere for future generations.“Our ancestors gave us a good forest and environment, and we need to protect them. There would be nothing for our next generation if we destroy forests and trees,” he said, adding that nature and forests play a prominent role in maintaining a healthy atmosphere.He urged students to take care of the saplings and plants on school premises. Vishwanath also called for minimising plastic use and appreciated foresters for their efforts to protect the environment in the Malnad region.Koppa deputy conservator of forests Shivashankar appreciated the efforts of the Okkutta.
