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Time of India

Social worker in Sundargarh turns ‘celebrations' into green movement

1 2 Rourkela: In a remarkable initiative transforming personal milestones into environmental action, a 50-year-old social worker from Sundargarh has successfully planted nearly 24,000 trees across the state through his innovative 'Green Memory Campaign' (Sabuj Smriti Abhiyan). Launched in 2023 on his son's 12th birthday, Digambar Upadhyay's initiative has grown from a personal gesture into a state-wide movement. "Memories are not just made in hearts — they should grow in the soil too," said Upadhyay, who believes every celebration deserves "roots, leaves and a lasting legacy". The campaign encourages people to plant trees to commemorate special occasions — birthdays, anniversaries, exam successes, and even in the memory of loved ones. Under Upadhyay's leadership, the initiative has established two 'memory gardens' spanning six acres in Sundargarh district's Gambharidih and Sagarpali areas. "Each tree becomes a living memory — a symbol of love, achievement or tribute," Upadhyay explained. The campaign has spread to eight districts including Keonjhar, Angul, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Sonepur, Boudh and Deogarh, with various species like banyan, fig, blackberry, neem and bakul being planted. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo A dedicated team of volunteers, including Manoranjan Mallick, Manoj Kumar Dani and others, support Upadhyay in his mission, conducting awareness programmes in villages and schools. The campaign's unique emotional connect has struck a chord with communities, as trees are not merely planted but named and nurtured. Looking ahead, Upadhyay aims to engage 1,00,000 families in planting an equal number of trees over five years. The campaign's success on social media has particularly resonated with youth, effectively promoting the message: 'Preserve while You Celebrate'. "In a world that desperately needs healing, the green memory campaign bridges the bond between humanity and nature, ensuring that joy and responsibility grow side by side," said Upadhyay, whose initiative continues to inspire environmental stewardship across the state.