How is Apple Farming Thriving in K'taka and Saffron in Kerala?

New Delhi, April 27 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently commended the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative, urging citizens nationwide to engage in tree planting in honor of their mothers.

He presented uplifting examples from Ahmedabad, Kinnaur, Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Kerala, where communities have successfully cultivated trees and crops despite challenging climatic conditions.

During the 121st episode of his monthly radio show 'Mann Ki Baat', PM Modi stated, "The greatest asset of our nation is our 1.4 billion citizens, their abilities, and their determination. When millions unite for a cause, the outcome is profoundly significant. An illustration of this is the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign, dedicated to the mothers who nurtured us and to Mother Earth who embraces us."

The Prime Minister noted that the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative will mark its first anniversary on June 5, coinciding with World Environment Day. He highlighted that over 140 crore trees have been planted nationwide during this period.

"Observing this initiative, people abroad have also planted trees in their mothers' names. Join this movement so you can take pride in your contributions by the year's end," he encouraged.

Discussing environmental changes in Ahmedabad, PM Modi remarked, "We all recognize that trees offer shade; they provide respite from heat. Recently, I learned that over 70 lakh trees have been planted in Ahmedabad over the past few years, significantly enhancing the city's greenery."

He added, "The construction of the River Front on the Sabarmati River and renovation of lakes, such as Kankaria Lake, have increased the number of water bodies. Reports indicate that Ahmedabad has become a leader in the fight against global warming in recent years."

"Residents are experiencing these positive changes—the cooler environment. The trees planted are creating vibrant shades of happiness in the city. I again urge everyone to plant trees to preserve the earth's health, combat climate change, and secure a better future for our children," PM Modi emphasized.

Recalling the saying, "Where there is a will, there is a way," PM Modi shared an inspiring agricultural success from Karnataka, where Shail Teli of Bagalkot has cultivated apples in the plains.

In his village Kulali, apple trees are thriving even in temperatures surpassing 35 degrees.

"Shail Teli's passion for farming led him to try his hand at apple cultivation, resulting in success. Today, his trees yield a substantial harvest, enabling him to earn a good income," he noted.

The Prime Minister also spoke about the expansion of saffron cultivation into new areas. While traditionally confined to Himachal Pradesh, it has now flourished in the stunning Sangla Valley of Kinnaur.

Highlighting similar agricultural innovation in Kerala, he mentioned, "In Wayanad, saffron is being cultivated using the Aeroponics Technique rather than traditional soil methods."

Regarding the expansion of litchi cultivation, PM Modi stated, "Remarkably, litchi, once primarily associated with Bihar, West Bengal, and Jharkhand, is now being successfully grown in South India and Rajasthan as well."

He commended Thiru Veera Arasu from Tamil Nadu, who transitioned from coffee cultivation to successfully planting litchi in Kodaikanal. PM Modi also highlighted Jitendra Singh Ranawat's achievements in growing litchi in Rajasthan.

"These examples are truly inspiring. When we commit to trying something new and persist despite challenges, even the seemingly impossible can become achievable," he concluded.