Commemorating the 95th birth anniversary of former President of India A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, Siruthuli, in collaboration with J S Auto Cast Foundry India, inaugurated Phase 2 of Periyamman Kovil Vanam in Annur, Coimbatore, with the planting of 10,000 saplings on land belonging to the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department on Thursday.
The two organisations have joined hands for the second consecutive year to expand the region’s green cover.
Under Phase 1, 10,000 saplings were planted last year. Building on this initiative, Phase 2 has added another 10,000 saplings to strengthen the region’s green cover and support long-term ecological restoration.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Ramesh, Joint Commissioner, HR&CE Department, Coimbatore, as the Chief Guest. The Guests of Honour included Sumeet Banga, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, J S Auto Cast Foundry; Leena Deshpande, Head – Corporate Social Responsibility, Bharat Forge; and Vanitha Mohan, Managing Trustee, Siruthuli. Members of Siruthuli’s apex body, its staff and employees of J S Auto Cast Foundry were also present.
A significant highlight of the event was the felicitation of five volunteers from Annur in recognition of their dedication and continued contribution to the development of Periyamman Kovil Vanam. The volunteers have been actively involved in the initiative every Sunday, undertaking maintenance activities and supporting the growth of the planted saplings. Their consistent efforts underscore the vital role of local communities in nurturing green spaces and ensuring the long-term sustainability of plantation initiatives.
The inauguration also witnessed enthusiastic participation from local stakeholders and students from Nava Bharath International School, Swami Vivekananda Matriculation Higher Secondary School and SNS College of Technology. The participation of students and young people highlighted the importance of fostering environmental awareness among the younger generation and encouraging their active involvement in conservation efforts.
Commemorating A. P. J. Abdul Kalam’s 95th birth anniversary through this plantation initiative underscores the importance of collective action in building a greener and more sustainable future.
Through their continued partnership, Siruthuli and J S Auto Cast Foundry aim to enhance green cover in Annur, support local biodiversity and promote sustained community participation in environmental conservation. The initiative reflects their shared commitment to creating lasting environmental benefits for the region through planned plantation activities and the continued care of saplings.
