Fruit Forest Collective Champions a Greener Mangalore
NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
MANGALORE: In a thoughtful step towards restoring biodiversity and making Mangalore greener, the Fruit Forest Collective organised the initiative “Grow Fruit Trees – Get the Birds Back” at Kavoor Lake on October 9 at 9:15 a.m. The initiative aimed to revive the city’s natural habitat by encouraging the planting of native fruit trees and creating a welcoming environment for birds and other wildlife.
Mangalore was once home to a rich variety of birds, including sparrows, kingfishers, parrots and many others. Over the years, the decline in fruit-bearing trees and natural habitats has affected the presence of these beautiful winged visitors. Recognising the importance of restoring this ecological balance, the initiative focused on planting native fruit trees such as mango, jackfruit, guava and jamun, which can provide food and shelter for birds while enriching the local environment.
The programme was organised under the leadership of Mrs Crasta of Mangalore, the main organiser, with the dedicated coordination of Mrs Vineetha Rai, Mrs Teena Pereira, Mrs Akshitha Shetty and Miss Karen Dias. The initiative was honoured by the presence of Mrs Rekha Shetty, Zonal Commissioner, Mangalore City Corporation, as the Chief Guest. Her presence added significance to the collective effort to promote environmental awareness and encourage community participation in making the city greener.
The organisers expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Mr Glavin Rodrigues for his valuable efforts, time and guidance in supporting the initiative. Special appreciation was also extended to Mr Paul of Global TV, the media partner, for his steadfast support and for standing with the initiative from day one, helping strengthen its message and reach.
The team also acknowledged Mr Jeeth Roche of Vana Trust for his enthusiasm and unwavering commitment to the vision of a greener and cleaner Mangalore. His dedication to inspiring both young people and adults, along with the time he devotes to environmental causes, was recognised as a valuable contribution to building a stronger culture of ecological responsibility.
The organisers conveyed their sincere thanks to the Principal and NSS Unit of Government First Grade College, Kavoor, as well as Mr Ramesh of Shakti School (CBSE), Shakti Nagar, for their support and encouragement. The involvement of educational institutions highlights the important role students and young people can play in protecting nature and shaping a more sustainable future.
Beyond planting trees, “Grow Fruit Trees – Get the Birds Back” carries a meaningful message: every tree planted today can become a source of nourishment, shelter and life for generations to come. Native fruit trees can help rebuild habitats, support biodiversity and reconnect communities with the natural world.
The initiative serves as a reminder that environmental conservation is a shared responsibility. Through the collective efforts of citizens, educators, environmental advocates, institutions and community leaders, Mangalore can take meaningful steps towards restoring its green spaces and welcoming its birds back.
As the Fruit Forest Collective rightly emphasises, “Every Fruit Tree Makes a Difference.” Each sapling planted is not merely a tree, but a seed of hope for a greener, cleaner and more vibrant Mangalore for future generations.
