Media Release

Bantwal, Jul 15: Loretto Central School celebrated Van Mahotsav on July 15 in the school auditorium. The programme began with a prayer by the school choir. The programme was graced by the chief guest, Sunil D'Souza, range forest officer, Bantwal; Fr James D'Souza, manager; Fr Jason Vijay Monis, principal; and Anitha Pais, vice principal. The programme was inaugurated by planting saplings, symbolising the school's commitment to a greener environment.

In his address, chief guest Sunil D'Souza said that Van Mahotsav was launched by K M Munshi in 1950, when he was the union minister for agriculture and food, to promote tree planting and forest conservation. He encouraged everyone to plant at least two trees every year and take responsibility for nurturing them. He said that one mature tree provides enough oxygen for four people, helps bring rainfall, prevents soil erosion, supports birds and animals, and reduces the surrounding temperature. He urged the students to plant a tree on their birthday and reminded them that without trees the land becomes a desert, while with trees it becomes heaven.

The school manager, Fr James D'Souza, said that the true intention of Van Mahotsav is not only to plant trees but also to protect and nurture them. He stressed that tree planting should become a regular habit and not be limited to Van Mahotsav celebrations. He also pointed out that the present scarcity of rainfall is largely due to deforestation and the loss of forests.

Students presented cultural programmes based on the themes of nature and environmental conservation. A sapling plantation drive was also held on the school campus, during which the chief guest, manager, principal staff, and students planted saplings to reinforce the message of environmental conservation.

Divi Shetty welcomed the gathering, and Apoorva highlighted the significance of the day. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Christel of grade 5. The programme was compered by Joseph of grade 9.