Tree Plantation and Environmental Education in Bihar

Aakanksha Seva Sadan (ASS), Muzzaffarpur, Bihar

Contact: Ms. Bandana Sharma

Dates: Oct 2022 – Sep 2025

Total Budget: Rs. 8,92,300

2025 Funding: Rs. 4,72,500 ($5,693)

This 3-year project has been working with the students and teachers of 6 high schools in the villages of Muzzarffarpur district of Bihar to provide environmental education through Awareness programs as well Exposure programs, followed by plantation and maintenance of 850 trees over 3 years.

During the first two years of the project a total of 749 trees (mango, Liche, Amla, Neem, Ashok, Kadam, Guaya, Papaya) have been planted in 6 different schools, with 101 addional trees planned in the coming months (planting of these tree was delayed by the ongoing building construction in the schools). Protective fences have been built around these trees to protect those against damage from stray animals. However, unfortunately, these fences did not stop tree sapling theft or tree damage due to vandalism, resulting in loss of about 60% of the planted trees.

281 school children have participated this year in the environmental exposure programs, bringing the total to 528 over 2 years.These programs have helped the children learn about the plantation and protection of trees and about the preservation of the environment.

In addition, 291 school children were involved this year (for a total of 444 over 2 years) in environment awareness programs

284 children participated this year (for a total of 436 in 2 years) in the three quiz and essay competitions, which were conducted to help them display their knowledge of the environment importance.

The soil and moisture conservation steps have helped minimize the amount of water required for the trees during the dry summer season.

From March to October 2025, the environmental and community development project in Bagalkote district achieved strong progress through sustained field engagement and participatory implementation. The initiative strengthened community ownership, improved environmental awareness, and enhanced local resilience across all target villages.

A total of 2,680 community members—including SHG members, farmers, school children, teachers, and village residents—benefited directly from project activities. Six  Tree Plantation Groups were formed to mobilize farmers and promote eco-friendly practices such as tree plantation, nursery raising, and kitchen gardening.

Key capacity-building interventions included awareness workshops and training programs on climate change, environmental protection, agroforestry, agri-horticulture, and nutrition-focused kitchen gardens. More than 150 participants received structured training. The project facilitated the plantation of 1,850 agroforestry saplings and 460 horticulture plants, with a notable 75% survival rate across 86 beneficiary plots. Species planted provided long-term environmental and livelihood benefits, including fodder, nutrition, shade, and ecological restoration. Beneficiaries and community groups actively took responsibility for sapling care, demonstrating strong ownership.

Awareness programs sensitized over 1,500 individuals to their role in environmental protection, creating a powerful ripple effect that encouraged neighboring villages and Panchayats to adopt similar green initiatives.

Overall, planting over 2,650 trees, building community capacity, and strengthening grassroots participation have improved biodiversity, enhanced household nutrition, and fostered long-term environmental stewardship. The project has established a strong foundation for continued climate resilience and sustainable community development in the Bagalkote region.

2023 Progress Report  2025 Progress Report