Goal:

To develop clusters of improved microclimatic conditions through tree plantation in drought-prone areas, thereby increasing green cover, enhancing biodiversity, and improving the ecosystem.

Objectives:

• To expand the green cover.
• To plant a variety of plants on 1 acre of land around the house.
• To involve farmers in planting diverse trees around the house.
• To create microclimatic patches to arrest desertification.
• To foster peace, harmony, and health within the family through useful species plantation.

Project Overview:

In the Jalihal region, the lack of greenery and increasing desertification posed a significant threat to the environment and the livelihood of the local community. Recognizing the need for sustainable development, the Yerala Projects Society (YPS) initiated a tree plantation project aimed at creating microclimatic zones that could help mitigate the harsh effects of drought and desertification.

The project revolves around the concept that the more land is under greenery, the healthier the development of microclimatic zones to arrest desertification.

Pilot Phase:

The project underwent a pilot phase for a year involving 110 farmers. Each farmer was required to plant 200 plants of selected different varieties. The chosen mixed varieties of plants include fodder, fruit, forest, medicinal, and floral types, which support the family in fulfilling their seasonal needs.

Implementation Details:

• Distribution of Saplings and Resources: Each farmer received 120 saplings, an organic manure kit, and a water-absorbing polymer from YPS. The farmers themselves planted an additional 80 saplings, bringing the total to 200 plants per participant.
• Role of Water-Absorbing Polymer and Organic Manure: The water-absorbing polymer was crucial for supporting the proper rooting of plants in the soil, while the organic manure helped maintain soil texture and fertility, ensuring negligible mortality once the plants took root.
• Selection of Plant Varieties: The plant varieties were selected based on the local agro-climatic conditions and land characteristics. The selection included a mix of fodder, fruit, forest, medicinal, and floral plants to ensure year-round benefits for the farmers.
• Government and Expert Support: Government nurseries were involved to provide quality saplings, and experts guided the farmers on the best plantation and survival strategies for the selected species.

Benefits:

The benefits from this plantation initiative were multifaceted:

• Healthier Atmosphere: The increased green cover led to a healthier atmosphere.
• Cooler Environment: The presence of trees created a cooler environment even during the hot summer months.
• Development of Microclimate: The project helped develop microclimatic patches that positively impacted the environment.
• Family and Community Well-being: Planting useful species fostered peace, harmony, and health within the family and the wider community.

Achievements and Future Goals:

The project has been a resounding success. Over the last five years, YPS has engaged 5000 participants, planting a total of 1,000,000 plants across the region. The commitment and active participation of the local farmers have been pivotal in achieving this milestone.

Key achievements include:

• Expansion of Green Cover: The extensive planting has significantly expanded the green cover in the Jalihal region.
• Enhanced Biodiversity: The diverse plant varieties have contributed to increased biodiversity.
• Microclimatic Improvements: The developed microclimatic patches have effectively mitigated the impacts of drought and desertification.
• Positive Environmental Impact: The project has created a lasting positive impact on the environment and the lives of the people in the Jalihal region.

YPS continues to look forward to further expanding this initiative, aiming to involve even more farmers and extend the green cover across a larger area. The success of this project demonstrates the power of community-led initiatives in driving sustainable development and improving the ecosystem for future generations.