JSW Steel’s Odisha Mining Division distributes over 2,000 saplings to foster green future

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BARBIL, NOVEMBER 29, 2025

In a significant step towards promoting ecological conservation and urban greening, JSW Steel’s Odisha Mining Division launched a sapling distribution campaign across schools and colleges in the Keonjhar and Sundergarh districts. The initiative, spearheaded by the company’s Forest and Environment Department, aims to engage local students in environmental stewardship and build awareness about the importance of sustainability.

The campaign, which has already distributed more than 2,000 saplings to students, spans 17 educational institutions across the two districts. In Keonjhar, a total of 1,225 saplings were handed out at seven schools and one college, while approximately 800 saplings were distributed in nine educational establishments in Sundergarh.

The saplings, chosen for their ecological value and adaptability to the local climate, include a wide range of species such as Jamun, Guava, Mango, Imli, Lemon, Cashew, Bakul, Ashok, Ficus, Hibiscus, Areca Palm, Jackfruit, and Belgium. These species are expected to not only contribute to the region’s biodiversity but also promote sustainable practices within local communities.

A standout moment in the campaign was the distribution of nearly 600 saplings at Barbil College last Friday. This event, attended by students and faculty members, emphasized the need to instill environmental responsibility in the younger generation. Narayan Chandra Dash, Principal of Barbil College, highlighted the significance of the initiative, saying, *“This initiative is more than just planting trees — it’s about cultivating responsibility, ecological literacy, and a lifelong commitment to sustainability.”*

The initiative received strong support from both students and faculty, with many praising JSW Steel’s proactive approach to fostering a greener future. Faculty members stressed the importance of engaging youth in environmental conservation efforts, noting that these actions can help pave the way for a more sustainable and eco-conscious future.

The sapling distribution ceremony was attended by various key figures, including JSW Steel Forest Department employees Punyasloka Mohanty, Sumitava Dutta, Abhisri S, and Dipchand Bihari, along with JSW Foundation representatives Partha Behura and Bijaya Sahoo. The event also saw the participation of Kapil Karmakar and Laxmipriya Tripathy from the Centre for Environment Education, who offered their insights on environmental awareness.