The Hindu : Kerala / Thiruvananthapuram News : AOL Foundation to distribute 10 lakh saplings

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Sunday, May 11, 2008
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Kerala - Thiruvananthapuram

AOL Foundation to distribute 10 lakh saplings

Special Correspondent

Thiruvananthapuram: In a bid to promote homestead-level farming, the Kerala unit of the Art Of Living (AOL) Foundation will distribute 10 lakh saplings and seeds of fruit-bearing trees, vegetables and medicinal plants to households across the State on May 13.

President of the Kerala apex body of Art of Living Rajmohan told a press conference here on Saturday that the initiative named Project Green Kerala was designed to reduce the dependence on neighbouring States for vegetables, fruits and other food products.

“Kerala is blessed with rich fertile soil, good climate, plenty of water and healthy, resourceful people. The only thing we lack is enthusiasm to work in the soil. By planting at least one vegetable sapling or seed, we can kick start a drive to achieve self sufficiency in food.”

Mr. Rajmohan said the aim of the project was to ensure that each family should get at least one vegetable from its own premises to prepare this year’s Ona Sadya.

Seeds and saplings will be distributed by the art of living centres throughout Kerala. AOL devotees would visit houses in their neighbourhood and help in planting the saplings.

Forest Minister Benoy Viswam is scheduled to inaugurate Project Green Kerala at a function to be held here on Tuesday. Ministers, government officials and representatives of residents associations and social organisations will participate in the drive.

Mr. Rajmohan said AOL would try to get the project entered in the Guinness Book for the maximum participation.

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