Adopting Trees as Siblings ... and Some Positive Stories That Came Our Way

The Sikkim government has revived an age-old tradition unique to the state, which encourages its people to forge fraternal relationships with trees that are within the confines of their properties or on public land.

Ayushi Thapliyal Updated: Sep 27, 2018 16:57:52 IST
2018-03-23T00:00:00+05:30
2018-09-27T16:57:52+05:30
Adopting Trees as Siblings ... and Some Positive Stories That Came Our Way

Adopting trees as siblings

ENVIRONMENT

The Sikkim government has revived an age-old tradition unique to the state, which encourages its people to forge fraternal relationships with trees that are within the confines of their properties or on public land. The notification, called Sikkim Forest Trees (Amity and Reverence) Rules and issued by the forest department, urges people to enter into a mit or mitini with the trees (or considering them as siblings). The notification also allows citizens to adopt the trees as children or as "smriti" in remembrance of a departed relative. An applicant can submit the requisite forms to the forest authorities so that the tree is registered in their name. The rules also prohibit deforestation and damage to a registered tree, which will be considered a forest offence. What a fantastic way to encourage conservation.

To keep a watch

SAFETY

Employees of the Indian Railways will soon get an anonymous online reporting system that will allow them to directly inform top railway officials (including the Indian Railway board chairman) of lapses in safety. The website, being developed by the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS), will be monitored by the ministry's safety department. The Indian Express quoted the Indian Railway board chairman Ashwani Lohani as calling it a "universal reporting mechanism". Here's hoping this new whistle-blower system will make safety and security of daily railway operations a priority and keep passengers safe.

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