India, Seoul city partner for reforestation, strengthen green ties

Indian Ambassador to Korea Amit Kumar, second from left, waters trees with Seoul Deputy Mayor Kim Byeong-min, third from left, along with other officials at Boramae Park, March 28. Courtesy of Embassy of Indian in Seoul

The Embassy of India in Seoul, in partnership with the Seoul Metropolitan Government, organized a tree-planting event at Boramae Park last week as part of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam," or "One Tree in the Name of Mother" campaign.

The event also highlighted Arbor Day in Korea, observed on April 5, focusing on the preservation of trees, protection of forests and enhancement of green cover.

Indian Ambassador to Korea Amit Kumar and Deputy Mayor of Seoul for Political Affairs Kim Byeong-min joined members of the Indian diaspora on March 28 to plant 25 plum and red plum trees each in an area designated as the “India-Korea Friendship Garden” under the initiative.

The campaign combines environmental action with a tribute to mothers. Launched by Indian Prime Minister Modi on World Environment Day 2024, it encourages people to honor and celebrate motherhood by planting a tree in the name of their mothers, creating a lasting memory while contributing to environmental sustainability.

Separately, Kumar, along with the deputy mayor, Seoul Metropolitan Council’s Environment and Water Resources Committee Chairman Im Man-kyu, Dongjak District Mayor Park Il-ha, Czech Ambassador Ivan Jancarek and other dignitaries, participated in a commemorative tree-planting ceremony organized by the Seoul Metropolitan Government.

The event included members of the Indian diaspora, business and academic professionals, volunteers and local community members. The Embassy of India in Seoul and the Seoul Metropolitan Government collaborated on the initiative to inspire citizens to create a lasting legacy of green spaces, emphasizing the role individuals can play in fostering a greener, more sustainable world.