A tree planting ceremony, part of the global ‘Plant4Mother’ movement that began in India, was held at the Botanic Gardens to mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Singapore and India.
The event, held on 20 February, was attended by Dr. Hwang Yu-Ning, CEO of the National Parks Board, and Dr. Shilpak Ambule, High Commissioner of India to Singapore.
The event, jointly organised by the National Parks Board, featured the planting of the thumbili tree (Diospyros malabarica), which grows in both India and Singapore. This tree is typically found in rainforests near riverbanks and streams and produces edible fruit with black pods.
Launched by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on World Environment Day (5 June 2024), the initiative aims to reinforce India’s commitment to environmental sustainability. It aligns with Singapore’s Green Plan, which seeks to plant one million trees between 2020 and 2030.
Dr. Hwang and Mr. Ambule emphasised the importance of protecting nature, highlighting that the green initiatives of both countries are dedicated to safeguarding the environment.
Previously, a tree planting event took place at the Sree Narayana Mission Nursing Home on 17 August 2024, followed by another event at the High Commission premises on 17 September, with students from NPS International School.
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Yousuf Rowther Rajid’s book Journeys and Lessons was launched on Saturday, 15th February, at the Singapore Indian Association. The event was organised by the Tamil Pattimandra Kalai Kazhagam and supported by the Sree Narayana Mission.
The book shares the inspiring journeys of 10 accomplished leaders from the Indian community. It highlights the lives of Mr. S. Devendran, CEO of Sree Narayana Mission, Mr. K. Karthikeyan, former nominated Member of Parliament, Mr. Manoharan Chakrapany, educationists Mr. Manoharan Subbaiah and Mrs. Pushpalatha Kathiravelu, Mr. Rajaram, legal trailblazer, Ms. Sarojini Pathmanathan, retired HR officer, Dr. Umarajan, healthcare innovator, Mr. Vishwa Sadasivan, journalist, and career consultant Dr. Jagabar Ali.
All funds raised from the book’s sales will be donated to the Sree Narayana Mission.
Mr. Vishwa Sadasivan commented that the history of a nation is embedded in the lives of its people.
Author Yousuf Rowther Rajid emphasised that the book was not merely about recounting the lives of these ten leaders, but about illustrating how their personal development contributed to the country’s growth, which in turn brought them greater recognition.
The event’s Guest of Honour, Dr. Mohammed Faishal Ibrahim, Minister of State for Home Affairs and National Development, shared that everyone’s journey offers valuable lessons for future generations. He encouraged today’s youth to read books like this and use them to enrich their lives.
Signed copies of the book were presented to the leaders by Dr. Faishal, and after honouring the donors, additional copies were distributed to other guests.
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