2 days ago
Seer takes the lead in Miyawaki model forest development
Koppal: Abhinava Gavisiddheshwara Swamiji of Koppal Gavi Mutt is spearheading the creation of the Miyawaki model forest. The initiative involves planting 25,000 saplings across a 2 km stretch with a 12-foot width, located on the Mutt's 45-acre property near Kolur and Katralli villages in Koppal taluk.
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The Mutt, traditionally recognised for its 'Anna Dasoha' (community feeding), is venturing into environmental conservation by implementing the experimental approach developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki.
"In the Miyawaki model, 3-4 plants are planted per square metre, grown densely, and afforestation is done. In this model, trees grow 10 times faster than those in traditional forests. These clusters of trees not only conserve 100 times more biodiversity but also absorb 40 times more carbon and release more oxygen.
Hence, Swamiji has taken steps to adopt this model," said Sharanu Shettar, the seer's personal secretary, .
"Due to the close proximity of the trees, they compete for sunlight, which accelerates their growth. Akira Miyawaki established over 1,700 microforests throughout Asia utilising this model. This approach is anticipated to be particularly beneficial for areas like Koppal," adds Rajesh Yavagal, a devotee of the Mutt.
This initiative aims to put into practice the idea that if each person plants a single tree, summers will be significantly cooler. In this context, with the involvement of the forest department, agriculture department, zilla panchayat, district administration, and in partnership with the ILYF (International Lingayat Youth Forum) organisation based in Bengaluru, which focuses on social service, efforts are under way to cultivate a forest in the 45-acre area of the 'Gavi Mutt Gurukula Shikshana Samsthe' using the Miyawaki method.
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The planting area encompasses 60 different tree species, including neem, banyan, jackfruit, peepal, bamboo, Indian beech, java plum, parijata, teak, holematti, gulmohar, kadamba, mango, tabubiya, jacaranda, mahogany, and soap nut.
Considering the outcomes of this initiative, there is an intention to implement the Miyawaki model on other properties of Gavi Mutt in the near future. Should this endeavour inspire the devotees, it could potentially contribute to the greening of Koppal.
