/va/ - Vanya

>India has lost one of its most passionate environmentalists, Padma Shri awardee Daripalli Ramaiah, 87, lovingly known as “Vanajeevi” (Forest Man), who passed away this morning ( April 12, 2025).

>Hailing from Reddy Palli village, just five kilometers from Khammam town, Ramaiah was a small farmer whose life-long green mission began in his farm and spread throughout his village. The roads leading to Reddy Palli are now flanked by giant trees, a testament to his labor of love. Over the years, he planted more than one crore trees, making an unparalleled contribution to biodiversity.

>Ramaiah had a unique approach to regreening the planet. He would collect seeds throughout the summer and plant them during the monsoon season. His commitment to the environment was evident even at public events. In 2004, after a rally addressed by Sonia Gandhi in Wyra, he was seen collecting empty water sachets discarded by attendees. He repurposed the plastic covers to grow saplings, a practice highlighted by The Hindu.

>His efforts caught the attention of Mr. A. Giridhar, the then Khammam District Collector (later Union Secretary for Defence), In recognistion of his services, he was honoured by the Collector at the Republic Day Celebrations and the Independence day fete.

>Mr Giridhar extened him monetary assistance and provided him a vehilce. The two wheeler he was provided became an iconic symbol of his mission. Often accompanied by his wife, Ramaiah used the vehicle to carry saplings and the message “Vruksho Rakshati Rakshitaha” (Protect trees, and they will protect you) across towns and villages.

>The District Rural Development Agency (DRDA), under then Project Director M. Raghunandan Rao (currently Telangana’s Principal Secretary of Agriculture), recognized Ramaiah’s service with a monthly honorarium. Ramaiah’s story gained widespread attention after being featured in India Today and later in local vernacular dailies.

>His wife, a frail yet steadfast supporter, was his constant companion, shading him like a tree throughout his journey. His home in Reddy Palli is adorned with graffiti stressing the importance of biodiversity, reflecting his deep dedication to environmental causes.

>Despite the recognition that came with the prestigious Padma Shri award, Ramaiah remained down-to-earth and relentless in his pursuit of a greener planet. He traveled across Telangana, planting trees and spreading awareness.

>In a touching gesture of gratitude, he often rewarded journalists who covered his story with fruit-bearing tree saplings, encouraging them to continue highlighting the importance of conservation. Ramaiah’s legacy will live on in the countless trees he planted and the inspiration he offered to generations. His life stands as a reminder of the power of individual commitment to making the world a better place.

Vruksho Rakshati Rakshitaha is beautiful line desu. Will plant a tree in the memory of this GOAT. Om Shanti 💐

>>114(OP)

https://hyderabadherald.in/vanajeevi-ramaiah-man-who-made-land-to-bloom-has-fallen-silent/ article on the same

Added a banner in his memory. I his message is really cool, can be motto for /va/ of sorts.

వృక్షో రక్షతి రక్షితః

>>116

based anon.