Sat Apr 12 04:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Padma Shri Vanajeevi Ramaiah Passes Away at 85
**Khammam, Andhra Pradesh:** Renowned environmentalist and Padma Shri awardee Vanajeevi Ramaiah passed away early Saturday morning due to a heart attack at the age of 85. Ramaiah, whose real name was Ramaiah, changed his surname to Vanajeevi (meaning forest dweller) reflecting his lifelong dedication to planting trees. He is credited with planting over 10 million trees, earning him national recognition and the Padma Shri award in 2017. His work has left an indelible mark on the region, inspiring generations to embrace environmental conservation.
The news of his death has prompted widespread grief and condolences. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu expressed his deep sorrow, calling Ramaiah an inspiration to the younger generation and his passing a significant loss to the environmental conservation movement. AP Minister Nara Lokesh echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing Ramaiah’s life as a testament to the importance of tree preservation. Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) chief KCR also expressed their condolences, highlighting Ramaiah’s significant contribution to environmental protection and his legacy of inspiring societal change through his unwavering commitment to planting trees. KCR specifically praised Ramaiah’s contribution to the Haritha Haram program in Telangana. Ramaiah’s dedication to the environment and his profound impact will be remembered for years to come.
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