Greening Punjab: Stories of Hope, Trees, and Clean Waters

As the world grapples with the escalating threats of climate change, a quiet yet powerful revolution is unfolding in the heart of Punjab. It is not led by policymakers or corporations, but by grassroots organizations-NGOs committed to nurturing the land, restoring ecosystems, and aligning their efforts with Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action).

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One such inspiring initiative is "Rukh Nahi, Tan Manukh Nahi Lehar"-a movement that goes far beyond symbolic plantation drives. Since 2009, this community-led campaign has not only planted over 8,000 trees across Punjab but has also taken full responsibility for nurturing them. "It's easy to plant a tree. The real work begins when you choose to care for it like a child," says Dr. Mahinder Singh, one of the volunteers. Their philosophy emphasizes that tree plantation is not a one-day event, but a long-term commitment to environmental stewardship.