Plant for Prosperity: Minister Thummala’s Green Call to Hyderabad”
Hyderabad, August 29: Telangana State Agriculture Minister Thummala Nageswara Rao emphasized the importance of planting trees for the state’s prosperity, warning that neglecting nature could lead to a future where even air might have to be bought. Speaking at the inauguration of the 16th Grand Nursery Mela, an All India Horticulture Show held at Necklace Road People’s Plaza on Thursday, the Minister highlighted the growing trend of purchasing water in cities, and cautioned that oxygen could be next.
“We are already seeing oxygen stations being established in cities like Delhi. It is not just water; even air is being bought. To avoid this, we need to focus on planting more trees and promoting greenery,” Minister Thummala said, addressing the media.
The Minister pointed out that the state government is actively promoting rooftop gardens, vertical gardens, and household plants, especially in Hyderabad, under the guidance of the Director of Horticulture. Subsidies are being provided by the Agriculture Department to encourage citizens to cultivate green plants and vegetables in their homes and gardens. “Our goal is to ensure that families remain healthy through the oxygen provided by these plants,” he added.
Minister Thummala also underscored the need for prioritizing greenery to ensure the happiness and well-being of society as Hyderabad continues to develop into a cosmopolitan city. He urged every household to participate in the Vanamahotsavam by planting saplings in the name of their favorite deity, parents, or children.
The Nursery Mela, which features over 150 stalls from different states, offers a wide variety of plants, including kitchen garden plants, ornamental plants, and medicinal plants, with prices ranging from Rs. 50 to Rs. 3 lakhs. Horticulture Director Sheikh Yasmeen Basha explained that the exhibition also includes materials necessary for tree cultivation. She mentioned that since 2015, the fair has been providing various types of plants not only to the residents of Hyderabad but also to those from surrounding areas.
Mela Incharge Khalid Ahmed and other officials were also present at the event, which aims to encourage plant lovers to make the fair a success and contribute to the greening of Telangana.
