Sat Apr 12 04:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Padma Shri Awardee and ‘Tree Man of India’ Vanajeevi Ramaiah Passes Away

**Khammam, Telangana:** Renowned social activist and Padma Shri recipient Vanajeevi Ramaiah passed away on Saturday morning following a heart attack. He was 85. Ramaiah, who hailed from Reddipalli village in Khammam Rural mandal, had been battling illness for some time. He was rushed to a government hospital in Khammam, where he succumbed to his illness.

Known as the “Tree Man of India,” Ramaiah dedicated his life to planting trees, achieving the remarkable feat of planting over 10 million saplings. His tireless efforts spanned decades, transforming barren landscapes and contributing significantly to environmental conservation. He planted trees along roadsides, in schools, hospitals, and temples, tirelessly promoting his philosophy of “Vruksho Rakshaati Rakshitaha” (trees protect those who protect them).

His unwavering commitment earned him the prestigious Padma Shri award in 2017 from the Indian government. Ramaiah is survived by his wife, a daughter, and two sons (two sons predeceased him). His death has sent shockwaves through the community, with numerous people gathering to pay their last respects.

Several political leaders including BRS ex-MP Santosh Kumar, Telangana Congress chief Revanth Reddy, and Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka expressed their condolences.

Ramaiah, born on July 1, 1937, originally named Daripelli Ramaiah, adopted the name Vanajeevi (forest dweller) reflecting his life’s work. He was also fondly called “Chetla Ramaiah” (tree Ramaiah). For over 50 years, he diligently collected seeds in the summer and planted them during the monsoon season. His knowledge extended to over 120 tree species. His ambition was to plant 30 million trees. The Telangana government included his life story in the sixth-grade social studies curriculum and Maharashtra’s government has included it in the Telugu textbook for 9th graders. He received numerous awards for his work, including the Manamitra Award from the Centre for Media Services in 2005 and an honorary doctorate from the Universal Global Peace Organization. He also received the Vanaseva award from the Indian government in 1995.

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