“I was often mocked and labeled as mentally unstable when I went about my daily work. But my mission is clear: to plant saplings and seeds on barren lands, and I am committed to this cause until my last breath.
My name is Daripally Ramaiah, and people call me Vanajeevi Ramaiah (Forest Man) in my village of Reddipalle in the Khammam district of Telangana. Planting saplings isn’t just a hobby for me—it’s the very essence of my existence. Every time I find an empty piece of land, I feel a calling to nurture it with a sapling or a seed, always keeping in mind the government regulations as well.
My sole aim is to ensure that every sapling I plant survives and thrives. In my younger days, I would pedal miles to reach suitable spots for planting, driven by an unwavering passion. Now, as age catches up with me, I travel on my scooter, determined to continue my mission.
I even sold my three-acre land, a precious asset, to fund the purchase of seeds and saplings. To date, I have planted over 1.5 crore saplings in my hometown in Khammam.
One of the most unforgettable moments of my life was meeting our former President, the late Pranab Mukherjee, in Delhi. Being honored with the Padma Shri award in 2017 for my contribution to expanding the country’s tree cover was a profound recognition of my life’s work. This accolade has only increased my sense of responsibility.
Additionally, I was awarded an honorary doctorate by the Academy of Universal Global Peace, further encouraging me to persevere.
I am continuing my efforts with the same energy even at the age of 85 despite suffering from many accidents during the plantation on main roads. I am now balancing my days with planting saplings, practicing yoga, and spending cherished moments with my grandchildren. My greatest joy would be to inspire the youth, hoping that each one plants at least one tree in their surroundings, carrying forward the legacy of nurturing our planet.”
- Vanajeevi Daripally Ramaiah, Eco Warrior