Prayagraj: The forest department in Prayagraj has launched an initiative to revive the fast-disappearing tamarind and kaitha trees by planting about over 2.20 lakh saplings of both the species during the upcoming monsoon.Known for their significant medicinal and environmental benefits, these trees will be planted across urban and rural areas to restore ecological balance and promote public health. The move marks a shift in plantation priorities, with special emphasis on conserving traditional species that have gradually vanished from roadsides and villages. According to Dr Santosh Kumar Singh of Motilal Nehru Medical College, kaitha is highly beneficial due to its rich nutritional content, including antioxidants, iron, calcium and vitamins B1 and B2. “The fruit helps strengthen the immune system, supports liver and kidney function, and aids in digestion. It is also considered effective in managing ailments like constipation, diarrhoea, piles and diabetes,” he said. Similarly, tamarind also contains antioxidants, vitamin C and tartaric acid, which contribute to improved digestion, relief from constipation, reduction in inflammation and even weight management. Divisional forest officer Arvind Kumar said the department will prepare 2 lakh tamarind and around 20,000 kaitha saplings in its nurseries for the drive. Each year, approximately 70 to 75 lakh saplings are planted across the district, with the forest department contributing around 20 to 22 lakh. This year, however, priority is being given to tamarind and kaitha. While tamarind has been planted in limited numbers in the past, kaitha saplings will be introduced for the first time.
