Rajanet Yegneswaran Charitable Trust (Reforestindia)

ReforestIndia represents the philanthropic endeavour of the Rajanet Yegneswaran Charitable Trust, a registered non-profit organization equipped with 8 Read more0G, 12A, and FCRA certifications. The overarching objective of this initiative is to make a meaningful contribution to global cooling through the reforestation of India, with a focus on efficiently sequestering significant amounts of carbon in the briefest possible timeframe. Recognizing that trees and forests serve as the primary natural carbon sinks capable of effectively cooling the planet, ReforestIndia aims to provide a sustainable solution. In addition to mitigating global warming, the initiative seeks to harness the manifold natural benefits associated with reforestation. These encompass heightened biodiversity, increased biomass, elevated precipitation, augmented rainfall, amplified groundwater levels, enhanced soil water retention and release capabilities over extended durations, improved watershed management, and the stabilisation of local climates. ReforestIndia stands as a viable option for individuals and corporations worldwide, offering the opportunity to lead a carbon-neutral, guilt-free existence by offsetting emissions resulting from their activities. All contributions made to ReforestIndia are eligible for tax deductions under the Indian Income Tax Act 80G, providing a further incentive for individuals and entities to support this environmentally impactful initiative. The organization, established in 2005 with the assistance of volunteers and continuing to operate with their support, embarked on its journey by planting indigenous trees in various urban settings such as layouts, schools, colleges, government offices, railways, and military land. Five years ago, the trust expanded its efforts to include agroforestry, focusing on planting fruit trees for impoverished farmers to augment their income. Recognizing agroforestry as a more productive, profitable, sustainable, and ecologically sound land-use practice, the trust also extended its initiatives to calamity-hit areas. Having planted 1000 trees on the banks of the River Kaveri in Kudige, Kodagu, Karnataka, and 2000 fruit and coconut trees for farmers affected by the Gaja Cyclone in Pattukotai, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, the trust has successfully planted a total of 81,500 trees. Their primary objective is not merely quantity but ensuring the survival of the trees, prioritizing locations where saplings receive adequate care. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the trust has collaborated with NITI Aayog, actively identifying and connecting those in need within urban and remote villages of Karnataka and Thanjavur. Volunteers, dedicated even during lockdowns, distributed 1500 dry ration kits, benefiting 5000 individuals, including those who lost their jobs, residents in cemeteries, and transgenders. Additionally, 3000 masks have been distributed, and five awareness camps on COVID-19 have been conducted. The trust, classified as an NGO, continues its impactful work by facilitating assistance to those affected by the pandemic in both urban and rural areas.