Introduction

Mero Rukh Mero Santati is a novel green initiative conceptualized by Shri Prem Singh Tamang (Golay), the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Sikkim to strengthen the connect between parents, children and nature by planting trees to commemorate child birth. It aims to plant 100 trees for every newborn child born in Sikkim. Watching the tree grow, as the baby grows, is a symbolic way of commemorating their arrival and is good for the planet as well.

Sikkimese society has had an intimate association with nature since time immemorial. We not only revere our mountains, lakes, rivers, caves and springs, but venerate the entire landscape as sacred. This initiative aims to reinforce this age-old bond of our society with nature. It aspires to co-create an ecosystem where both the tree and the child are able to reach towards the sun, a brighter tomorrow that promises vitality, health and happiness.

To ground this initiative various departments of the Government of Sikkim will converge to facilitate seamless service to the new parents right from enrollment to planting and after care. ASHA, Anganwadi workers, gram panchayats, urban local bodies and forest staff will facilitate the onboarding of the parents.

Objectives

• To generate a sense of affinity and reverence for nature and compassion for flora and fauna in the state.
• To leave a better environmental legacy for future generations.
• To embrace plants as one's own child or friend.
• To improve the tree cover in the state.
• A step towards making Sikkim climate change resilient.

Salient Features

• Convergence and coordination between various departments.
• Linking of Birth Registration with the MRMS platform.
• 100 saplings will be provided by the Forest and Environment Department and other Departments where applicable.
• Hassle free registration with Google form or forms available at the nearest GVK/BAC/Forest Range Office etc.
• A dedicated WhatsApp Number for any query/assistance.
• Incentives for maintenance and survival of the planted sapling.