Vadodara, 31st January 2022: Cosmo Foundation, the philanthropic initiative of Cosmo Films, in association with Centre for Environment Education, Ahmadabad has initiated this project. It includes plantation of 15,000 mango saplings in 10 villages of Karjan taluka of Vadodara, Gujarat with 66 farmers in an area of approximately 66 acres.
Cosmo tree plantation drive was inaugurated at village: Methi, Karjan – Vadodara by Honourable Dr. Sudhir Joshi (District Ayurveda Officer & Nodel Officer CSR to collector Vadodara), Mr. Parikh, Deputy Director of Horticulture, Mr. Shenma, Karjan Block Development Officer and Mr. Sunil Wani, Plant Head, Cosmo Films Ltd.
Under this project, the farmers selection is done considering the needs, attitude and passion for the farming. Rigorous training and technical guidance is provided to farmers on the scientific farming practice, sustainable farming, and sustainable income. Saplings are procured from the certified nurseries of horticulture department and provided free of cost to farmers. Organic fertilizers and pesticides, support sticks are also provided, soil and water testing is done for each farm land in certified labs.
This initiative would adequately support in improving the livelihood of the farmers. 90% saplings are of Kesar Mango, which is the most popular and precious in Gujarat. 10% saplings are of other types of mangos like – Rajapuri and Dusheri. Cosmo Foundation, along with the local community has taken the responsibility of protecting and nurturing these saplings until they reach maturity.
Other senior officials from Cosmo Films and Cosmo Foundation team joined the function and motivated the farmers. Centre for Environment Education explained the importance of this project –How it contributes to promote farmers livelihood, scientific and sustainable farming practices, reduces carbon footprint and local farmers becomes the agents to save the environment and planet.
Local farmer – Shri. Budhabhai Gokarbhai Vasava – said. “I never dreamt that I would have a mango orchard, as mango saplings are very expensive. I did not have courage to think of building such farms. With the support of Cosmo Foundation and CEE only I could build mango orchard. It will not only help me, but also to my next generations to sustain their livelihood. The correct farming practise which I am learning will be a lifelong asset for me.”
On this occasion Mrs. Yamini Kumar Jaipuria, Managing Trustee of Cosmo Foundation said, “Our objective is to contribute meaningfully to the empowerment and upliftment of the communities in which we operate. Through Mango Tree Plantation drive, we hope to build a society, which follows a sustainable farming practice, which leads to sustainable livelihood. We want to encourage farmers to start planting more fruit bearing trees which leads to their economic and social productivity, improves green cover and helps to tackle climate change.”
Honourable Dr. Sudhir Joshi (District Ayurveda Officer & Nodel Officer CSR to collector Vadodara) said , “We highly appreciate the initiatives of Cosmo Films Ltd. & Cosmo Foundation. Such initiative will benefit not only the livelihood of farmers, but also helps to mitigate climate change. This massive tree plantation drive of Cosmo Foundation will help to improve UN SDG no: 13. Sustainable farming and agricultural practices builds to sustainable economy, sustainable agriculture and enhances healthy living and survivability.”
Deputy Director of Horticulture – Mr. Parikh further shared, “Agriculture helps to improve GDP and the use of technology in farming is must in the future. We highly appreciate efforts of Cosmo Foundation and Centre for Environmental Education in scientific farming.Mr. Sunil Wani, Plant Head, Cosmo Films also assured his commitment on behalf of Chairman for this drive.
The Cosmo Foundation has been carrying out several education programs for the underprivileged students and youth of this area. Not only education, foundation has been working to build sanitation blocks for rural schools, maintaining public gardens under National Highway no:8 Karjan.
