Rooted in the spirit of lifelong friendship and environmental responsibility, the Std X-1976 batch alumni of St. Thomas High School, Goregaon (East), came together for a heartfelt tree plantation initiative under the agroforestry concept. This meaningful gathering was more than a reunion; it was a shared commitment to give back to the planet by nurturing life through trees.

By planting trees within an agricultural landscape, the alumni contributed to a regenerative agroforestry model that supports biodiversity, improves soil health, and empowers local farming communities. This initiative symbolized their enduring bond while sowing the seeds of sustainability for future generations. In choosing to celebrate their decades-long friendship through green action, the 1976 batch created lasting memories deeply rooted in purpose, community, and environmental stewardship.

Project Planning & Execution

No of Trees: 103 Trees

Plantation Location: Kurung, Navsuchivadi, Karjat, Maharashtra 410201

Plantation Date: 30th June 2025

Name of Species: Mango and Guava

Species Selection & Its Benefits: 

This initiative of St.Thomas prioritizes the planting of native tree species, ensuring high survival rates and fostering long-term ecological stability. By aligning tree selection with local market demand, the project enhances environmental sustainability and provides farmers with viable income opportunities. Farmer consent and participation play a crucial role in species selection, ensuring that the chosen trees integrate seamlessly with existing agricultural practices.

The project strategically selected Guava (Psidium guajava) and Mango (Mangifera indica) for plantation due to their multiple economic, ecological, and social benefits. Mango and Guava are two widely cultivated tropical fruit trees valued for their nutritional, environmental, and economic benefits. 

Mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, supporting eye health, immunity, and digestion. Guavas, exceptionally high in vitamin C, promote heart health, strengthen the immune system, and help regulate blood sugar levels. 

Environmentally, both trees support biodiversity by attracting pollinators and providing food for birds and small animals. Their deep root systems help prevent soil erosion, making them ideal for sustainable cultivation in tropical and subtropical regions.

Beneficiaries Details

• Target Population: Employees, stakeholders, and local community members of Katraj

• Age Group: All age groups focus on adults to seniors

• Gender:  Inclusive of all genders

• Social & Economic Status: Open to all social and economic backgrounds, emphasizing community involvement

Planting Methodology and Its Advantages

Agroforestry: To celebrate the enduring bond of the Std X–1976 alumni of St. Thomas High School, Goregaon (East), their tree plantation initiative embraced the principles of agroforestry, a sustainable land-use practice that harmoniously integrates trees within agricultural landscapes. By planting a variety of fruit-bearing and timber trees, this green endeavour enhances soil health, promotes biodiversity, and supports the livelihoods of farmers by improving long-term productivity and income. Rooted in the alumni’s desire to commemorate decades of friendship in a meaningful way, this initiative reflects their collective commitment to environmental restoration and intergenerational well-being. It stands as a living symbol of their shared journey, growing not just in memory but in the very soil of a greener, more sustainable planet.

Advantages of Agroforestry

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

• Sustainable Livelihoods: Farmers benefit from diversified income sources through the sale of fruits and other tree-based products, reducing dependence on a single crop.

• Enhanced Biodiversity: Agroforestry creates a diverse ecosystem by integrating trees with crops, attracting pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects that support natural pest control.

• 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 & Nutritional Benefits: Fruit-bearing trees provide a direct source of food, improving local nutrition while supporting long-term agricultural productivity.

• Carbon Sequestration & Climate Resilience: Trees absorb carbon dioxide, helping mitigate climate change while providing shade and windbreaks that reduce temperature extremes and improve microclimatic conditions.

• Soil Health and Water Conservation: Tree roots prevent soil erosion, enhance water retention, and improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen and adding organic matter. Agroforestry systems also support groundwater recharge, reduce runoff, and improve soil moisture retention, making them ideal for drought-prone regions.

Activities During Tree Plantation

The tree plantation initiative by the Std X–1976 alumni of St. Thomas High School, Goregaon (East) was thoughtfully crafted to blend environmental responsibility with a heartfelt celebration of enduring friendship. The plantation site was carefully prepared in advance by local farmers, creating optimal conditions for the saplings to thrive. On the day of the event, GBT Volunteers, farmers, and the alumni themselves actively participated in planting a diverse mix of fruit-bearing and timber trees, chosen for their long-term ecological impact, including carbon sequestration, soil enrichment, and biodiversity enhancement. Following the plantation, the saplings were gently watered to ensure strong root establishment and healthy growth. By directly engaging in the planting activity and embracing agroforestry practices, the alumni not only commemorated their lifelong bond but also contributed meaningfully to farmer livelihoods and sustainable land use. This green gathering stands as a powerful expression of gratitude, unity, and purpose, where each tree planted reflects a cherished memory and a collective commitment to a greener, more resilient planet.

Conclusion Elements

Impact

* This impact analysis is forward-looking (An Agro-forestry 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 – By integrating fruit-bearing trees into agricultural systems, the initiative ensures a stable food supply, providing nutritious produce for both consumption and market sale.

• Environmental Awareness – The project educates the local community on the importance of tree planting, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable land use.

• 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 – Agroforestry improves soil health, enhances water retention, and reduces land degradation, making farming communities more adaptable to changing climate conditions.

• Health and Well-being – Increased green cover improves air quality, reduces heat stress, and provides access to nutrient-rich fruits, contributing to the overall health of local communities.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 favorable conditions for crop growth and ecosystem balance.
  

Achievements

SDG Goals Achieved through Agroforestry

• SDG 1: No Poverty – By integrating agroforestry with traditional farming, St. Thomas Alumni's initiative provides farmers with additional income sources through fruit yields, improving economic resilience, and reducing poverty in rural areas.

• SDG 2: Zero Hunger – The plantation of fruit-bearing trees enhances food security by offering nutritional produce while improving soil health for sustainable agricultural productivity.

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – Tree plantations improve air quality, soil fertility, and water conservation, creating a healthier environment for local communities. The presence of green spaces also promotes mental well-being.

• SDG 4: Quality Education – St. Thomas Alumni's agroforestry initiative includes farmer training on sustainable land-use practices. These educational efforts equip farmers with knowledge on conservation, resource management, and climate-resilient agriculture.

• SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – By reducing soil erosion, improving groundwater recharge, and minimising surface runoff, the plantation promotes sustainable water management in the region.

• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – The initiative generates employment opportunities for rural communities, provides training in sustainable agroforestry, and supports long-term economic growth through enhanced land productivity.

• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – St. Thomas Alumni's project integrates innovative agroforestry techniques, including multi-layer cropping systems and soil conservation methods, fostering sustainable land use and industry-community collaboration.

• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – By involving small-scale and marginalised farmers, the project promotes economic inclusivity and reduces inequalities by ensuring equitable access to agroforestry benefits.

• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Agroforestry reduces dependency on chemical inputs, promotes organic farming, and ensures the responsible use of natural resources, supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

• SDG 13: Climate Action – The planted trees act as carbon sinks, sequestering atmospheric carbon dioxide, enhancing ecosystem resilience, and mitigating the effects of climate change in the region.

• SDG 15: Life on Land – This initiative promotes biodiversity conservation, prevents deforestation, and restores degraded land, fostering healthy ecosystems and sustainable forestry practices.

• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – The collaboration between St. Thomas Alumni, Grow Billion Trees, and local farmers demonstrates the power of partnerships in achieving sustainability goals and fostering large-scale ecological restoration.

ESG Achieved through Agroforestry:

• Environmental Impact: St. Thomas Alumni's agroforestry initiative plays a crucial role in environmental sustainability by enhancing carbon sequestration, restoring biodiversity, and improving soil and water conservation. The plantation of native and fruit-bearing trees supports climate change mitigation by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing ecosystem resilience. Additionally, the project helps prevent soil erosion, improves groundwater retention, and contributes to a healthier, greener landscape. By integrating sustainable agroforestry practices, this initiative ensures long-term ecological benefits, fostering a self-sustaining environment that supports both nature and local communities.

• Social Impact: The initiative brings significant social benefits by fostering sustainable livelihoods, improving food security, and enhancing community well-being. By integrating fruit-bearing trees, the project helps farmers diversify their income sources, ensuring greater economic stability and resilience for rural households. Agroforestry practices optimise land use efficiency, leading to higher agricultural productivity while maintaining ecological balance. The plantation also contributes to better air quality, creates green spaces for community well-being, and encourages local participation through awareness programmes. By engaging and educating stakeholders, the initiative empowers communities with the knowledge and skills to adopt sustainable land management practices, fostering long-term environmental and social sustainability.

• Governance Impact: The Std X–1976 alumni of St. Thomas High School, Goregaon (East), demonstrated a strong commitment to ethical and responsible environmental action through their agroforestry tree plantation initiative. Rooted in the principles of good governance, this meaningful reunion was transformed into a purposeful act of sustainability, marking decades of friendship with a living legacy for the planet. By collaborating with Grow Billion Trees, farmers, and local communities, the alumni ensured transparency, accountability, and long-term ecological impact through strategic partnerships and inclusive engagement. This initiative reflects the alumni’s dedication to integrating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) values into their shared legacy, promoting environmental stewardship, supporting rural livelihoods, and championing responsible land management. It stands as a shining example of how personal milestones and collective memories can be celebrated through purposeful environmental action, guided by values of integrity, unity, and a deep respect for the Earth.

Building Communities

St. Thomas Alumni’s agroforestry initiative goes beyond tree plantation; it strengthens rural communities by empowering farmers, fostering collaborations, and creating sustainable livelihoods. By integrating environmental stewardship with social impact, the project nurtures a sense of shared responsibility, driving long-term benefits for both people and the planet.

• Empowering Farmers: St. Thomas Alumni’s agroforestry initiative strengthens farmers’ economic stability by diversifying income sources and improving agricultural productivity. By integrating tree plantations with existing farmland, farmers benefit from enhanced soil fertility, better crop yields, and long-term financial gains. This initiative promotes self-sufficiency and long-term environmental stewardship, ensuring a sustainable future for both farmers and the ecosystem.

• Fostering Partnerships: Collaboration is at the core of St. Thomas Alumni’s plantation initiative, bringing together corporate, environmental, and community stakeholders. The partnership between St. Thomas Alumni, Grow Billion Trees, and local farmers created a strong foundation for sustainable development. By leveraging collective expertise and resources, this initiative ensures that environmental and social benefits extend beyond the immediate plantation, fostering long-term ecological and economic resilience.

• Creating a Ripple Effect: The impact of this initiative goes beyond tree planting; it sets in motion a chain reaction of positive environmental and social change. By improving biodiversity, enhancing carbon sequestration, and promoting sustainable farming, the project contributes to a healthier ecosystem. Additionally, as more farmers adopt agroforestry practices, the region experiences long-term economic and environmental benefits, inspiring further community-driven conservation efforts.

This initiative proved that environmental sustainability thrives when rooted in community effort. It’s not just about planting trees, it’s about planting hope, collaboration, and a shared vision for a greener tomorrow.

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 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 extend our heartfelt gratitude for the successful completion of the plantation initiative at Kurung, Karjat, Maharashtra. This achievement represents a significant step towards environmental restoration, sustainable land use, and community empowerment. It would not have been possible without the collective efforts of dedicated individuals, local farmers, and partner organisations. Their unwavering commitment has played a crucial role in fostering a greener, more resilient ecosystem for future generations.

To the Std X–1976 alumni of St. Thomas High School:  We sincerely thank St. Thomas Alumni for their unwavering dedication to sustainability and environmental conservation. By integrating agroforestry into their heartfelt initiative, St. Thomas Alumni have demonstrated a profound commitment to nurturing greener landscapes and uplifting local communities. Their vision blends ecological responsibility with environmental harmony, creating a lasting impact that supports both the environment and those who depend on it. We deeply appreciate St. Thomas Alumni's initiative in planting 103 trees of native species. This effort will enhance biodiversity, improve soil health, and contribute to carbon sequestration, ensuring long-term ecological and economic benefits. Moreover, by promoting sustainable land use, this initiative plays a vital role in supporting farmers, providing them with an additional source of income through fruit production. St. Thomas Alumni's dedication to environmental sustainability and community upliftment is truly commendable, and we are grateful for their contribution to a greener and more resilient future.

To the Farmers of Kurung: Your dedication to embracing agroforestry and incorporating fruit-bearing trees into your farming practices is truly commendable. This initiative not only enriches soil health but also strengthens long-term agricultural sustainability. Your commitment to fostering a healthier ecosystem while securing a better future for future generations is inspiring. We are grateful to be part of this journey and look forward to witnessing the lasting positive impact of your efforts.

To Our Ground Partners and Volunteers: Your dedication, expertise, and passion for environmental conservation have been essential in making this initiative a success. Through our collective efforts, we have shown that collaboration and a shared vision for sustainability can create a lasting impact. Your invaluable contributions have played a crucial role in driving this mission forward, and we deeply appreciate your commitment. Thank you for being an integral part of this journey toward a greener future.

Through this collective effort, we have taken significant steps toward revitalizing ecosystems, promoting sustainable agriculture, and enhancing the livelihoods of farmers in Karjat. This is just the beginning, and we look forward to strengthening our partnership in pursuit of a greener, more sustainable future for all.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment and support.

Closing Remarks

The successful completion of the agroforestry plantation at Kurung, Karjat, Maharashtra, marks a significant milestone in St. Thomas Alumni's journey towards environmental sustainability and community empowerment. This initiative has not only expanded the region’s green cover but has also provided long-term benefits to local farmers by integrating sustainable agricultural practices.

By enhancing soil fertility, supporting water conservation, and generating additional income through fruit production and other byproducts, the project strengthens livelihoods and promotes financial stability for farming communities. With 100 trees now flourishing, this initiative will continue to contribute to ecological balance, biodiversity restoration, and climate resilience.

As we celebrate this achievement, we reaffirm our commitment to driving impactful sustainability efforts and inspiring more organisations and individuals to take action for the environment. We extend our deepest gratitude to St. Thomas Alumni, the farmers of Kurung, our partners, and all those who contributed to making this project a success. Your dedication and collaboration have been instrumental in turning this vision into reality.

This is just the beginning of a larger movement towards a greener and more sustainable future. Through collective efforts, we can build a resilient environment and leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.