At The Orchid School, we believe that meaningful learning often happens beyond the four walls of a classroom. On the morning of June 13th, 2025, this belief took root—quite literally—as 76 students from Class IX (Aster, Blush, and Fuchsia), along with their teachers, embarked on a transformative tree plantation drive at Vasundhara Abhiyan, a thriving biodiversity park nestled in Baner Hills, Pune.
Accompanied by teachers Parag T, Rupal R, Priya B, Neha S, Bhagyashree J, and Gayatri, and supported by our school’s dedicated gardener Sahadev Londhe (fondly known as Mali Mama), the group set out from campus at 8:30 AM with plants, tools, and a spirit of stewardship.
They were warmly received by Mr. Vijay Rao, one of the core facilitators at the site, and Mr. Ram Prasad, the land’s caretaker. The students were introduced to the remarkable story of Dr. Chandrakant Garudkar, who initiated the greening of this once-barren hill in 2006. Today, thanks to the commitment of Dr. Garudkar and his team, Vasundhara Abhiyan is home to:
- 15,000+ trees and shrubs across 180 native species
- 73 bird species
- 64 butterfly species
- 75 types of herbaceous ephemerals
Energized by this story of transformation, students immersed themselves in hands-on learning. Working in teams and forming human chains, they carried mulch weighing up to 30 kg and planted indigenous species such as Bahawa, Tiwas, Ambat Kanchan, Palas, and Tulsi. Five tall saplings received special attention, symbolizing long-term commitment to the ecosystem.
This experience went beyond environmental action—it nurtured empathy, collaboration, and ecological awareness. There were no stages or applause, just the quiet satisfaction of contributing to something meaningful.
By 9:45 AM, the students were back at school, carrying not just memories but newfound responsibility and insight. One student reflected, “It felt good to be part of something bigger than us. Something different.” At The Orchid School, we aim to create not only knowledgeable learners, but also thoughtful citizens. This tree plantation drive was a small step in that larger journey—and a reminder that change begins with action.
