Blithchron 2025 at IIT Gandhinagar: Sustainability Run for Earth

Blithchron, the vibrant annual cultural fest of IIT Gandhinagar, is channeling its youthful energy and creativity into a greener tomorrow through its Read more

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Blithchron 2025 at IIT Gandhinagar: Sustainability Run for Earth

Blithchron, the vibrant annual cultural fest of IIT Gandhinagar, is channeling its youthful energy and creativity into a greener tomorrow through its Sustainability-Themed Marathon in August 2025. Beyond promoting health and community spirit, the event carries a profound environmental purpose, uniting students, NGOs, changemakers, and industry leaders to champion sustainable living.

As part of this vision, Blithchron has embraced the agroforest concept for its tree plantation initiative, where trees are integrated into farmlands to enrich biodiversity, improve soil health, and support local ecosystems. Every marathon winner will be honored with the gift of a tree, planted thoughtfully in agroforestry landscapes. These trees will not only absorb carbon and combat climate change. Still, they will also yield long-term ecological and community benefits, offering shade, shelter, and even fruit-bearing potential for local farmers.

Each plantation is a living tribute to the winners’ dedication, symbolizing endurance, growth, and collective responsibility towards the planet. Through this initiative, Blithchron is weaving fitness, celebration, and sustainability into one impactful legacy, ensuring the race towards a better world continues long after the finish line is crossed.

 

Project Planning & Execution

No of Trees: 18 Trees

Plantation Location: Rajpur, Barwani, Madhya Pradesh 451447

Plantation Date: 19th August 2025

Name of Species: Guava

Species Selection & Its Benefits:

The initiative prioritizes the planting of native tree species, ensuring high survival rates and fostering long-term ecological stability. By aligning tree selection with the farmer’s needs and local market demand, the project enhances environmental sustainability while providing a long-term source of income. The farmer's consent and active participation played a crucial role in selecting the tree species, ensuring seamless integration with existing agricultural practices.

For this initiative, a single farmer was supported by a plantation of 1000 guava (Psidium guajava) trees. Guava was strategically chosen for its resilience, economic benefits, and ecological advantages. As a fruit-bearing tree, it offers a sustainable income source through harvests while enriching soil health, reducing erosion, and creating a favorable microclimate for surrounding crops. This thoughtful selection not only strengthens farmers’ livelihoods but also reflects Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s broader commitment to environmental conservation, sustainability, and community empowerment.

Beneficiaries Details

SN Farmer Name Google Location Village Name Plot Size (in Acre) Guava Planted
1 Ajay Kharte https://tinyurl.com/96bef5zn Upla 0.012 18

Planting Methodology and Its Advantages

Agroforestry: Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s tree plantation initiative embraces the agroforestry concept, a sustainable land management approach that integrates trees into agricultural landscapes to promote environmental conservation and local sustainability. By enhancing carbon sequestration, enriching biodiversity, and improving soil health, agroforestry ensures long-term ecological balance while reducing erosion, improving water retention, and minimizing the need for chemical fertilizers. It also fosters natural pest control and offers microclimatic benefits like temperature regulation, wind protection, and shade for companion crops. Through this initiative, Blithchron reinforces its commitment to ecological restoration, carbon footprint reduction, and responsible environmental stewardship, planting the seeds for a greener planet and a sustainable future.

Advantages of Agroforestry

  • Increased Farmer Incomes: This approach helps in increasing the farmers’ income by as much as 3 times. Farmers benefit from diversified income sources, lifting economic resilience.

  • Improved Livelihoods: Agroforestry enhances farmers' resilience to economic and climate-related shocks by creating more sustainable and diversified farming systems.

  • Biodiversity Promotion: Agroforestry supports a diverse range of plants and animals, creating habitats for wildlife and improving ecosystem health.

  • Environmental Sustainability: This model reduces carbon emissions and promotes sustainable land management, aligning with SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

  • Food Security: Agroforestry enhances agricultural productivity and food availability by integrating fruit-bearing trees with crops, contributing to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).

  • Carbon Sequestration: Trees planted through agroforestry absorb carbon dioxide, helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

  • Climate Resilience: Agroforestry helps mitigate climate change impacts by improving land productivity and fostering biodiversity.

  • Improved Soil and Water Management: Trees enhance soil fertility, reduce erosion, and increase water retention, resulting in more resilient farming.

 

Conclusion Elements

Impact

Direct Impact

Parameters Values References
No. of Trees Planted 18
Fruit Production Potential (Tons/Year) 0.45
Income Generation Potential (Rs/Year) ₹15,750
Carbon Sequestration Potential (KG) 20 Small to medium-sized trees can sequester around 10–48 kilograms (22–106 pounds) of CO₂ annually.

https://growbilliontrees.com/blogs/knowledge/how-much-co2-can-one-tree-absorb
Carbon Sequestration by 18 mature trees ( Tons/year) 0.36 Tons No. of Trees x Carbon Sequestration by 1 mature trees per year
Carbon Credit Equivalent 0.36 One carbon credit is equivalent to one tonne of carbon dioxide or the equivalent amount of another greenhouse gas.
Carbon Footprint of an avg Indian Citizen (Tons/Year) 1.8 https://www.iea.org/countries/india/emissions
Offsets Annual Carbon Footprint of (Adults) 0.2 Carbon offset by 18 mature trees per year / Carbon Footprint of an avg Indian Citizen per year

(This impact analysis is forward-looking (An Agroforestry project matures in 3-5 years)

Indirect Impact

Community Impact

  • Empowerment of Farmers: By providing training and resources for sustainable farming practices, agroforestry equips farmers with skills to enhance productivity and adapt to environmental changes.

  • Food Security: The integration of fruit-bearing trees and crops ensures a consistent food supply, improving nutrition and reducing hunger within the community.

  • Environmental Awareness: Community involvement in tree plantation fosters a sense of responsibility for environmental conservation and promotes sustainable practices in daily life.

  • Enhanced Social Equity: Agroforestry initiatives foster enhanced social equity by empowering marginalized farmers with sustainable livelihoods, bridging economic gaps, and promoting inclusive community participation in environmental conservation efforts.

  • Resilience to Climate Change: The diverse and sustainable nature of agroforestry helps communities mitigate the impacts of climate change, including extreme weather events, by stabilizing local ecosystems.

  • Health and Well-being: Green spaces created through agroforestry improve air quality and offer a healthier environment, contributing to the physical and mental well-being of the community.

Environmental Impact

  • Carbon Sequestration: Trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing significant amounts of CO2 from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

  • Soil Health Improvement: Agroforestry enriches soil through organic matter from fallen leaves and roots, improving fertility, structure, and nutrient availability for crops.

  • Erosion Prevention: Tree roots stabilize the soil, reducing erosion caused by wind and water while protecting nearby agricultural fields and water bodies.

  • Biodiversity Conservation: By creating habitats for various species, agroforestry enhances biodiversity, supporting pollinators, beneficial insects, and native wildlife.

  • Water Cycle Regulation: Trees improve water retention, recharge groundwater levels, and reduce surface runoff, contributing to a more balanced and sustainable water cycle.

  • Microclimate Regulation: Agroforestry moderates temperature extremes, reduces wind speeds, and increases humidity, creating favourable conditions for crop growth and ecosystem balance.


Achievements

SDG Goals Achieved through Agroforestry

  • SDG 1: No Poverty – Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s initiative supports marginalized farmers by integrating fruit-bearing trees into agricultural landscapes, creating long-term income opportunities and enhancing economic resilience.

  • SDG 2: Zero Hunger – Agroforestry improves soil fertility, enhances crop productivity, and promotes sustainable farming, ensuring better food security for rural communities.

  • SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – The planted trees contribute to air purification, reduced carbon emissions, and biodiversity enhancement, fostering a healthier environment for local communities.

  • SDG 4: Quality Education – Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s commitment to sustainability includes empowering farmers with knowledge on sustainable land-use practices, conservation, and climate-resilient agriculture.

  • SDG 5: Gender Equality – By encouraging inclusive participation in agroforestry, this initiative supports women’s involvement in sustainable farming and economic empowerment.

  • SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – The planted trees enhance soil moisture retention, reduce water runoff, and aid groundwater recharge, ensuring better water conservation.

  • SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s initiative creates jobs in tree planting, nursery management, and agro-processing, boosting local economies. Promoting sustainable agroforestry businesses fosters entrepreneurship and enhances financial resilience for farmers through diversified income sources.

  • SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – By supporting innovative agroforestry practices, Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar promotes sustainable agricultural infrastructure and long-term environmental impact.

  • SDG 10: Reduced Inequality – The initiative empowers small-scale farmers with alternative income sources and sustainable farming training, helping bridge economic disparities.

  • SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s commitment to sustainability ensures responsible resource use, promoting organic farming and reducing dependency on chemical inputs.

  • SDG 13: Climate Action – The planted trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO₂ emissions and helping mitigate climate change, aligning with Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s environmental responsibility goals.

  • SDG 15: Life on Land – By supporting reforestation and biodiversity conservation, Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar actively works towards restoring ecosystems and preventing land degradation.

  • SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s collaboration with Grow Billion Trees highlights the power of strategic partnerships in driving sustainability, combining expertise, resources, and community engagement for a greener future.

ESG Achieved through Agroforestry:

  • Environmental Impact: Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s tree plantation initiative integrates sustainable afforestation with ecological restoration, contributing to carbon sequestration, climate change mitigation, and improved air quality. By enhancing soil fertility, preventing erosion, and promoting groundwater recharge, the initiative ensures long-term ecological stability. The plantation also fosters biodiversity by providing habitats for wildlife and strengthening ecosystem resilience, reinforcing the company’s commitment to environmental conservation and responsible land stewardship.

  • Social Impact: As part of its Sustainability-Themed Marathon, Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar has launched a meaningful tree plantation initiative that celebrates every marathon winner with the gift of a tree. This symbolic gesture not only honors achievement but also drives a lasting environmental impact by contributing to ecological restoration and sustainability. By engaging local farmers in the plantation process, the initiative generates income opportunities, strengthens food security, and supports rural livelihoods through the long-term benefits of tree cultivation. Women from surrounding communities are also involved in planting and nurturing these trees, fostering empowerment and sustainable employment. Beyond its direct benefits, the project inspires environmental awareness and social responsibility among participants, spectators, and residents, aligning the spirit of competition with the shared goal of building a greener, more sustainable future.

  • Governance Impact: Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s collaboration with Grow Billion Trees highlights its dedication to ethical governance, transparency, and measurable environmental impact. This initiative follows expert-led afforestation strategies, structured execution, and adherence to sustainability standards. By ensuring accountability, responsible corporate governance, and stakeholder trust, Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar sets a benchmark for sustainable business practices, reinforcing its commitment to corporate responsibility and environmental stewardship.

Building Communities

One of the most impactful outcomes of Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s agroforestry initiative was the sense of connection and shared purpose it fostered among farmers and environmental partners. By supporting tree plantation efforts in Rajpur, Barwani, Madhya Pradesh, the initiative became more than just an environmental intervention; it evolved into a symbol of responsibility, collaboration, and long-term commitment to a greener and more sustainable future.

  • Empowering Farmers: Farmers were not just involved in the plantation process; they played an essential role in ensuring the trees thrive, benefiting from sustainable agroforestry practices that provide long-term economic and ecological advantages. This initiative empowered them with knowledge, resources, and an additional source of income, reinforcing their connection to environmental conservation and sustainable agriculture.

  • Fostering Partnerships: The initiative brought together Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar, Grow Billion Trees, and local farming communities, highlighting the power of collaboration in creating lasting environmental change. Through this partnership, the plantation was executed with expertise, precision, and a focus on long-term sustainability, ensuring that the trees not only grow but also contribute to biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and improved soil health.

  • Creating a Ripple Effect: Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s tree plantation initiative inspired a deeper appreciation for sustainability, encouraging businesses and individuals to support green efforts in meaningful ways. By taking proactive steps towards environmental stewardship, Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar set a strong example for corporate responsibility, demonstrating that sustainability and business success can go hand in hand. The initiative has the potential to influence more organizations to integrate environmental action into their core values, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

This initiative reinforced that true sustainability is built through collective action. It was not just about planting trees; it was about planting trust, fostering collaboration, and cultivating a shared vision for a greener, more resilient future.


Commitment by Grow Billion Trees

  • Ensuring Tree Survivability: GBT prioritizes native species, continuous monitoring, and soil health improvement using organic fertilizers. These efforts ensure sustainable growth and benefit the farmers and communities.

  • Transparency & Accountability: GBT provides detailed reports on tree growth, survival rates, and carbon benefits, using geo-fencing and regular updates to maintain transparency and effectiveness.

  • Sustainable Plantation Efforts: GBT implements projects that balance environmental, social, and economic goals, addressing issues like urban heat islands and degraded farmlands. These efforts promote ecological balance, livelihoods, and long-term climate resilience.

  • Enhancing Ecosystem Health: By selecting native species and creating diverse habitats, GBT enhances biodiversity and ecosystem resilience, ensuring long-term ecological health and supporting wildlife.

  • Long-Term Impact: GBT’s initiatives tackle environmental challenges, enhance rural livelihoods, foster climate resilience, and promote sustainable development while reducing carbon footprints.


Acknowledgment

We at Grow Billion Trees extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who played a role in the success of the agroforestry plantation project in Rajpur, Barwani, Madhya Pradesh. This initiative, which harmonizes environmental conservation with community empowerment, would not have been possible without the collective dedication of visionary organizations and passionate individuals.

To Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar: We extend our sincere gratitude to Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar for its invaluable support and commitment to environmental sustainability through the Sustainability-Themed Marathon plantation initiative. Your dedication to creating a greener, healthier planet is truly commendable.

This initiative at Rajpur, Barwani, Madhya Pradesh, stands as a testament to Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s vision of making a positive environmental impact through thoughtful and responsible actions. Your contribution has not only added to the region’s green cover but also promoted biodiversity, soil health, and community awareness around sustainable practices.

We deeply appreciate Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s leadership, participation, and belief in the power of small steps to drive meaningful change. Thank you for partnering with us in this journey towards a more sustainable future.

To Our Ground Partners and Volunteers: Your expertise, passion, and tireless efforts have ensured the successful execution of this project. Through our collective dedication to sustainability, we have demonstrated that strategic partnerships and shared environmental responsibility can lead to tangible, long-term benefits for people and the planet.

Through this collaborative effort, we have taken meaningful steps toward restoring ecosystems, strengthening rural economies, and promoting responsible environmental stewardship. This marks the beginning of an enduring commitment to a greener, more sustainable future, and we look forward to continuing this journey together.

Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to sustainability.


Closing Remarks

The plantation initiative at Rajpur, Barwani, Madhya Pradesh, under IBlithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s Sustainability-Themed Marathon, marks a significant step towards environmental restoration and sustainable development. By planting 18 Trees, this effort contributes not only to increasing green cover but also to enhancing biodiversity, improving soil health, and supporting long-term climate resilience.

Such initiatives highlight the importance of corporate responsibility and community engagement in addressing environmental challenges. Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s proactive approach and commitment to sustainability serve as an inspiring example for others to follow.

As we look ahead, this plantation drive stands as a lasting symbol of what can be achieved when thoughtful action meets purposeful intent. Together, with continued collaboration and care, we can build a greener, healthier future for generations to come.

Together, we grow a greener tomorrow!

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1. Agroforestry for Sustainability

Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar is proving that you don’t have to be a farmer to dig deep for change. Through its agroforestry-based tree plantation initiative, the festival is bringing forests and farmlands together in perfect harmony—kind of like rock and jazz blending into one beautiful tune. Agroforestry isn’t just about planting trees; it’s about planting them smartly, alongside crops, to improve soil, retain water, and boost biodiversity. For every Sustainability-Themed Marathon winner, a tree is planted in an agroforest landscape, making their victory literally grow over time. These green warriors absorb carbon, create shade, and even help companion crops thrive. It’s like gifting nature a VIP pass to the party! The result? Happier farmers, healthier ecosystems, and a community that knows its finish lines are just the starting point for a greener future. Blithchron’s approach turns each medal into a sapling, each sapling into a micro-habitat, and each micro-habitat into a lasting legacy. It’s fitness, friendship, and forests—bundled into one eco-chic package.

2. Student-Led Green Movement

When IIT Gandhinagar students throw a party, they don’t just play music—they play for the planet. Blithchron’s Sustainability-Themed Marathon is a perfect example of how young minds can run towards change (literally) and plant the seeds of the future. This isn’t some half-hearted “let’s plant one tree and call it a day” initiative. Oh no. It’s a full-on, well-thought-out agroforestry project where every winner gets a tree planted in their honor, integrated into farmlands for maximum environmental impact. The beauty lies in the student leadership—organizing, coordinating, and collaborating with farmers, NGOs, and local communities to make this a success. They’re not just winning hearts; they’re winning hectares of restored green cover. And the cherry on top? These students get to see their work flourish year after year, long after the applause dies down. It’s the ultimate hands-on sustainability lesson—no PowerPoint slides required. Because at Blithchron, the only thing better than running the race is running towards a greener tomorrow.

3. Marathon Winners as Eco-Champions

At most marathons, winners walk away with medals, maybe a trophy, and a lot of Instagram likes. But at Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s Sustainability-Themed Marathon, they walk away with something far more enduring—a tree planted in their name. And not just any tree, but one that’s part of an agroforest, where it will work hard to protect soil, nurture biodiversity, and soak up that pesky carbon dioxide. In other words, the winners don’t just cross the finish line—they cross into the “eco-champion” zone. Their legacies literally take root, growing year after year while they go about their lives knowing that somewhere, their tree is providing shade, fruit, and shelter to countless living beings. It’s a prize that keeps on giving, not just to the winner but to the planet. Forget podiums—this is about planting the kind of victory that future generations can actually breathe in. Because at Blithchron, you don’t just win a race—you win a forest’s gratitude.

4. Community Engagement Through Tree Plantation

Blithchron’s tree plantation initiative is not just an environmental project; it’s a community love story. The Sustainability-Themed Marathon pulls in students, farmers, NGOs, and local residents into one big green mission. Think of it as a neighborhood block party—only instead of loud music, you’ve got the soothing rustle of newly planted saplings. By using the agroforestry approach, these trees become part of working farmlands, boosting yields, improving soil health, and supporting biodiversity. Local farmers are directly involved, meaning they benefit economically while also becoming stewards of the environment. And because it’s tied to a high-energy cultural fest, there’s an infectious vibe of celebration around every plantation drive. It’s not “just another CSR activity”—it’s a living collaboration between science, society, and a little bit of student madness. The real magic? Watching these trees grow over the years, silently proving that when communities plant together, they grow together—literally and figuratively.

5. Eco-Friendly Student Initiatives

Some college projects fade away after submission day—but not at IIT Gandhinagar. Blithchron’s Sustainability-Themed Marathon is the ultimate proof that eco-friendly student initiatives can leave a mark that lasts for decades. The idea is simple yet genius-run a marathon, win a race, and a tree gets planted in your name. But the twist is in the agroforestry model, where these trees are planted alongside crops, creating win-win situations for farmers and nature alike. The student organizers handle everything—from liaising with farmers to ensuring the right mix of native and fruit-bearing species. It’s sustainability in sneakers, where youthful energy meets scientific planting strategies. Plus, it turns the idea of “youth activism” into something tangible and rooted—quite literally. The best part? Ten years from now, these students can return and point to a tree, saying, “Yep, I made that happen.” That’s what we call a legacy worth running for.

6. Agroforest Carbon Sink Initiative

If trees could talk, the ones planted through Blithchron’s agroforest initiative would probably say, “We’re sucking up carbon and loving it!” This isn’t random greenery—it’s a planned carbon sink, designed to pull CO₂ from the atmosphere and lock it into trunks, leaves, and roots. Each marathon victory fuels this growing carbon sponge, making every race a step toward climate action. The agroforestry design amplifies the effect by integrating trees into farmlands, ensuring they thrive while helping crops flourish. And let’s be real-“carbon sequestration” sounds like a mouthful, but at Blithchron, it simply means giving the planet a fresh gulp of clean air. The math is simple—more trees = less carbon = happier climate. The marathon may last a few hours, but the climate benefits? They last decades. So next time you see a runner crossing the finish line, remember-they just scored a personal best and a planetary win.

7. Women Empowerment Through Green Initiatives

Blithchron’s tree plantation program doesn’t just plant trees—it plants opportunities. By involving women in the planting, care, and maintenance of agroforest trees, the initiative creates sustainable livelihood options and builds confidence in local communities. These women aren’t just helpers; they’re environmental stewards, ensuring each sapling grows into a strong, healthy tree. And because agroforestry landscapes produce food, fodder, and other useful resources, the benefits ripple through entire households. The Sustainability-Themed Marathon thus becomes more than an event—it’s a catalyst for social change, where every finish line crossed supports a woman taking a step toward economic independence. At Blithchron, empowering women and empowering nature go hand-in-hand—because both have the strength to shape the future.

8. Linking Fitness with Sustainability

At Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar, fitness isn’t just about burning calories—it’s about planting them back into the Earth. The Sustainability-Themed Marathon connects the adrenaline rush of running with the calm, steady growth of trees in an agroforest. Every winner’s tree becomes a living extension of their race, quietly working to clean the air, cool the climate, and support wildlife long after the cheers fade. It’s a beautiful feedback loop-running improves your health, and the resulting plantation improves the planet’s health. In a world where events often leave behind plastic bottles and trash, Blithchron leaves behind oxygen and shade. Now that’s what you call running smart. And if you think about it, trees are the ultimate marathoners—they stand in the same place for decades, enduring every season, and still keep giving. Sounds like a winning team-up to us.

FAQ

What is Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s tree plantation initiative in the agroforest concept?

Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s tree plantation initiative is part of our Sustainability-Themed Marathon, where every winner is honored with a tree planted in their name. We adopt the agroforest concept, integrating trees with farmlands to enhance biodiversity, improve soil health, and support farmers. This approach ensures long-term ecological balance while contributing to carbon sequestration and climate change mitigation. Our initiative not only benefits the environment but also supports local communities through income opportunities, women’s empowerment, and environmental awareness. It’s our way of making every race a step toward a greener and more sustainable future for India.

How does agroforestry benefit the environment?

At Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar, we believe agroforestry is a win-win for nature and people. Planting trees alongside crops improves soil fertility, enhances water retention, and prevents erosion. It increases biodiversity, offering shelter and food for wildlife. Agroforestry also absorbs carbon dioxide, helping combat climate change. By reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and fostering natural pest control, it promotes healthier farming practices. Our Sustainability-Themed Marathon supports this model to ensure that each tree planted is part of a system that nurtures both the planet and local livelihoods, creating lasting environmental and social benefits for generations to come.

Why connect a marathon with tree plantation?

Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar connects fitness with sustainability to inspire action beyond the finish line. Our Sustainability-Themed Marathon celebrates health, endurance, and environmental responsibility. By gifting winners a tree planted in their honor, we create a living legacy that grows year after year. It’s a symbolic gesture that turns personal achievement into collective impact. The trees, planted in agroforestry landscapes, improve ecosystems, support farmers, and absorb carbon. This unique blend of sports and sustainability motivates participants and communities to engage in meaningful environmental action, proving that every step taken can lead to a greener and healthier future.

Where are the trees planted?

The trees from Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s initiative are planted in agroforestry landscapes across farmlands, ensuring they benefit both nature and local communities. This method integrates native, fruit-bearing, and climate-resilient trees into agricultural settings. Locations are chosen to maximize environmental impact, improve soil health, and boost farmers’ livelihoods. By planting in these strategic areas, we ensure that each tree contributes to biodiversity, supports food security, and helps in long-term carbon sequestration. This approach allows our Sustainability-Themed Marathon to create a real and lasting impact, making every winner’s contribution meaningful for decades to come.

How does this initiative support local communities?

Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s tree plantation program uplifts local communities by engaging farmers in planting and maintaining the trees, providing them with additional income sources. Agroforestry offers food, fodder, and resources, enhancing rural livelihoods. We also involve women in plantation and care activities, empowering them with sustainable employment opportunities. By combining environmental action with social empowerment, our Sustainability-Themed Marathon benefits not just the planet but also the people who care for it. This integrated approach ensures that sustainability is rooted in community growth, making our initiative a model for eco-friendly and socially responsible development.

What kind of trees are planted?

We at Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar select a diverse mix of native, fruit-bearing, and climate-resilient species for our agroforestry plantations. These include varieties that support biodiversity, improve soil health, and provide long-term ecological benefits. Native trees adapt better to local conditions, fruit-bearing trees offer food resources, and climate-resilient species ensure survival in changing weather patterns. This thoughtful species selection enhances the overall impact of our Sustainability-Themed Marathon, ensuring that every planted tree contributes meaningfully to environmental restoration, farmer support, and climate change mitigation for a greener and more sustainable India.

How is women’s empowerment part of the initiative?

Women’s empowerment is central to Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s plantation program. We involve women from local communities in planting, nurturing, and maintaining the agroforest trees. This not only provides sustainable income but also builds their skills and confidence. Women often become key stewards of these trees, ensuring their long-term survival. By creating livelihood opportunities, our Sustainability-Themed Marathon goes beyond environmental goals to address social equity. Empowering women strengthens families, communities, and the success of the plantations, making this initiative a powerful combination of ecological restoration and gender equality in rural areas.

How does the initiative address climate change?

Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s tree plantation initiative directly tackles climate change by planting trees that absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Agroforestry landscapes act as carbon sinks, storing carbon in trees, roots, and soil. By reducing greenhouse gas levels, these plantations help regulate temperatures and improve air quality. Climate-resilient species are chosen to ensure survival despite changing weather patterns. Our Sustainability-Themed Marathon transforms athletic victories into climate victories, ensuring that every participant’s achievement contributes to global climate action and a greener, more sustainable future for India and beyond.

Is this a one-time event or ongoing?

While the Sustainability-Themed Marathon happens annually, Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s tree plantation initiative is designed for long-term impact. Trees planted during each edition are nurtured for years, ensuring they grow into healthy, mature contributors to the environment. We work with farmers and local communities for continuous care and maintenance, making it more than just a one-day event. This ongoing approach ensures that the environmental and social benefits—such as carbon sequestration, biodiversity enhancement, and rural livelihood support—continue to grow year after year, making the initiative a lasting legacy.

How can people get involved?

People can participate in Blithchron-IIT Gandhinagar’s Sustainability-Themed Marathon as runners, volunteers, or supporters. Even if you’re not racing, you can sponsor a tree in the agroforest, contribute to awareness campaigns, or collaborate as a partner organization. Students, NGOs, and local businesses are encouraged to join hands in promoting sustainability through this initiative. By getting involved, you’re not just supporting a cultural fest—you’re contributing to a greener India, empowering rural communities, and taking action against climate change. Every step, every tree, and every hand extended makes a difference.