Odagaon: Today, the 75th Van Mahotsav was celebrated at Janashakti Government High School in Bhaliadihi, Deogaan. The event was chaired by retired teacher and environmentalist Panchanan Panda. The main guest was Nikhilesh Malik, the Odagaon Forest Range Officer, and the main speaker was state award-winning teacher Ranjan Kumar Das. Other honoured guests included retired teacher Dwitikrishna Mishra and school management committee chairman Anand Dakua.
The speakers highlighted the importance of not only planting trees but also making sure they grow well. They talked about reducing the use of plastic, avoiding unnecessary use of air conditioners, not using motorcycles, and saving water. Students who took care of the trees at the school received trophies from the guests. The students also marched through the village with slogans and placards to raise awareness about the importance of tree planting and care.
In the presence of all guests, teachers, committee members, and students, various trees like banyan, mango, jackfruit, peepal, amla, moringa, and pomegranate were planted on the school premises. All the teachers and staff of the school helped with the event. Teacher Pradosh Kumar Raut coordinated the program, and headmaster Ranjit Mahapatra managed the event.