BJP to plant one million palmyra saplings, protect toddy tappers

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) State president P.V.N. Madhav on Friday announced an action plan to plant one million palmyra saplings across Andhra Pradesh and promote the cultivation of other palm-family trees. He also said the party would work towards protecting the livelihoods of toddy tappers.

Addressing a roundtable meeting organised by the BJP at its State office on the occasion of World Environment Day, Mr. Madhav said concerted efforts were needed to improve the socio-economic conditions of communities dependent on palmyra-based livelihoods, particularly the Gouda, Setti Balija, Srisaina and Yadiga communities.

He said palmyra trees occupy a significant place in Indian civilisation and culture and play an important role in environmental conservation.

While both the Central and State governments were implementing several welfare schemes for marginalised communities, additional support was required for toddy tappers, he said.

Mr. Madhav advocated the establishment of Neera (palm nectar) production centres, saying they would generate employment opportunities while encouraging the consumption of healthy, natural beverages.

Rajya Sabha member Paka Satyanarayana said the roundtable meeting had been organised to identify practical solutions to the long-pending issues faced by toddy tappers.

BJP OBC Morcha State president Rongala Gopi Srinivas and others participated in the programme.