Thiruvananthapuram: Saplings of teak and mango from the state will now find a home in Maldives.The state is joining an initiative to donate trees to Maldives as part of cooperation with the island nation’s “5 Million Tree Project.” Forest minister Shibu Baby John officially launched the programme on Wednesday.The initiative aims to promote environmental sustainability and strengthen coastal resilience in Maldives.As part of the effort, the state is donating 600 grafted mango and teak saplings each. The mango saplings were sourced from College of Agriculture, Vellayani, while the teak saplings were procured from Central Nursery at Kulathupuzha. The saplings were specially packed and prepared at the district permanent nursery in Poojappura.Maldives consul general Aminath Shifana received the saplings in the presence of additional principal chief conservator of forest (social forestry) Pramod G Krishnan.The minister said he was proud that Keralam could be part of an effort that strengthens the friendly ties between the two countries. Shifana said she was especially delighted to accept this gift of affection.During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Maldives on July 25, 2025, he had assured support in sending saplings from India.
