1000 Together – A Green Initiative in Karnataka
The Healing Circle (THC) Trust, Bangalore, Karnataka
Contact: Jayashree Ashok
Dates: April 2023 – March 2026
Total Budget: Rs.16,56,750
2025 Funding: Rs. 5,52,000 ($6,651)
Maintenance of 13250 trees
The 2023 summer in Kalkunte was one of the hottest summers. In order to save plants and also prepare the pits for the next monsoon months, the food waste from the school run by THC was composted in an open composting pit method. With that 9 tractor loads of compost were generated and this was mixed with goat and sheep manure, black soil and red soil. 2 big baskets of this mixture were applied to each of the 13250 trees. In addition, 10 loads of coconut and areca nut dried leaves from the nearby village were also added. With a mulching machine on the farm, all the dried leaves, branches, cuttings and dried coconut shells were sliced fine and mulched for 13250 trees. This definitely helped the plants.
The herb and shrub garden near the yoga and sun garden areas were started as planned. The 2023 academic year started with Bhumi seva where children from schools run by THC planted Herb and shrub gardens in batches. In the month of October 2023 the remaining saplings were planted. Despite not having rains this year the plants are being meticulously watered and they have survived well. A list of 35 different varieties which includes Krishna Tulsi, Rama Tulsi, Wild ginger, Doddapatre, Aloe vera, Catmint, Lemon grass, Citronella, Vetiver, Paneer rose, Rosemary, Milkweed, Turmeric, Tincher plant etc were planted.
THC’s request for FCRA renewal of FCRA to the Government of India is pending approval. As a result, PPI’s 2024 funds, while approved, could not be disbursed. Despite this, THC reallocated funds within their organization and continued the maintenance of 13,250 trees and herb and shrub gardens, in addition to planting 300 new saplings.
THC experienced a highly productive monsoon season after a challenging summer drought. The herb and shrub garden is flourishing, with regular harvesting of hibiscus, marigolds, tulsi, lemongrass, jasmines, paneer roses, and tuberoses for altar use. The garden is thriving as a rich ecosystem, with ongoing efforts such as planting seasonal flowers, weeding, mulching, watering, and overall maintenance.
The food and forest trees have also benefited from the favorable monsoon. Pits were prepared with fresh red soil, food waste manure, mulch, and water sourced from the sewage treatment plant, contributing to their growth and health.
After the FCRA was approved in June 2025, the funds were sent to THC in July 2025.
Year 2 of the initiative built upon earlier planting efforts and focused on both new plantations and maintenance in the following areas.
Enhanced Biodiversity: With over 2,013 trees and an expanded herb and shrub garden, (680 forest trees, 518 shrubs and 815 herbs shrubs till October 2025) the land is seeing improved soil fertility, groundwater recharge, and ecological diversity, increased green cover, improved microclimate.
Community Engagement: Involving local communities and volunteers in care, creating awareness and ownership.
Sustainability Models: Herb and shrub gardens will support traditional medicine, community health, and educational use for children and villagers.
Scalable Model: Demonstrating how drought-prone land can be revitalized through integrated afforestation and agroforestry methods.
The food and forest trees have also benefited from the favorable monsoon for another year. Pits were prepared with fresh red soil, food waste manure, mulch, and water sourced from the sewage treatment plant, contributing to their growth and health.
2023 Progress Report 2025 Progress Report Visual Story
