The longevity of a banyan tree is often compared with at least seven life spans of a human being and hence women worship this tree for the well-being of their family, especially husband. These days, with more and more women working, there is no time to do the "pheras" around the banyan tree. Hence, small time vendors chop branches and sell them at the market which are bought by women and worshipped.

By Val & Tino On the occasion of the World Environment Day (WED), we moved around town for a survey to assess the degree of public awareness. In keeping with the day's spirit, we took the walking option, simultaneously ensuring that no traces of carbon in the footprints were left behind.

The Mizos, who earlier used to practice the slash-and-burn cultivation since times immemorial, have now realized the importance of planting trees, Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga said here today. Speaking on the occasion of the Green Mizoram Day, Zoramthanga regretted that the traditional slash-and-burn cultivation had resulted in large-scale deforestation. "However, Mizos have realised the importance of planting trees. If we continue to plant more and more trees each year, we can preserve our God-gifted green forests and save us from the global warming,' he said.

    A still from Global Warming

The state unit of All India Youth Federation (AIYF) has alleged widespread irregularities in the various projects of the forest department. The Joint Secretary of the AIYF state unit, Subhash Dutta, said that there were numerous instances of misappropriation of funds by the department. He made the claim after receiving the details applied for under the Right to Information Act 2005.

FPJ investigations revealed that a major part of the saplings and trees have found its way to the farm house owned by a former municipal commissioner The Mira-Bhayandar Municipal Corporation (MBMC) lived to its reputation of being one of the most corrupt civic bodies in the state after yet another major scam stumbled out of its closets. This one being from its Tree Authority (TA).

The Cane and Bamboo Technology Centre (CBTC) has urged the policy makers and development activists in Northeastern states to use bamboo for low carbon economy which would help contain the global warming. A CBTC release issued here today on the occasion of the World Environment Day said as part of the celebrations, about 60 field functionaries from the NE states would be imparted training on bamboo nursery and plantation under the National Bamboo Mission Scheme.

To commemorate the World Environment Day on June 5, Commonwealth Youth Games Pune 2008 is planning to host nature conservation activities. "With growing concerns over global warming and depleting green cover, the aim is to enhance public attention and action about nature conservation and environmentalprotection,'said a press release. On June 5 the city would witness a Tree plantation drive where 25000 saplings will be planted at Vetal Tekdi, Paud Road.

HOJAI