Wed May 28 14:07:01 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

In Tirupati, India, District Forest Officer P. Vivek launched the annual Vanamahotsavam mass plantation drive at Divyaramam Eco Park with a goal of planting five lakh native plant varieties. Vivek emphasized the importance of native species for soil, water, and life preservation, highlighting the forest department’s initiatives to protect biodiversity and eradicate invasive foreign species. The public was urged to participate, with one senior journalist planting a Kadamba tree to mark his birthday, and many locals joined in.

**News Article:**

**Tirupati Launches Ambitious Native Tree Plantation Drive**

**TIRUPATI, May 28, 2025** – The Tirupati district is embarking on a major environmental initiative with the launch of Vanamahotsavam, an annual mass plantation drive aimed at revitalizing the region’s native greenery. District Forest Officer (DFO) P. Vivek spearheaded the launch at Divyaramam Eco Park near Kapilatheertham, unveiling plans to plant an impressive five lakh native saplings.

“Native varieties have protected our soil, water, and life for centuries,” stated Mr. Vivek, emphasizing the critical role of local communities and nature enthusiasts in safeguarding these vital resources. The focus is on species like terminalia bellirica (Tani), albizia amara (usiri), pterocarpus marsupium (red sandalwood), and syzygium cumini (neredu), which have historically been integral to the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve’s ecosystem.

The initiative also targets the eradication of invasive foreign species, such as prosopis juliflora and lantana camara, known for their detrimental impact on native biodiversity.

The DFO urged public participation, encouraging residents to plant native saplings during significant events. Senior journalist and nature enthusiast P. Ramachandra Reddy answered the call, planting a Kadamba tree to commemorate his 65th birthday. Trekkers, nature lovers, and morning walkers were also present at the launch, demonstrating widespread community support for the ambitious reforestation project.

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