‘Project Signature’, a CSR initiative of SIDBI in collaboration with The Art of Living to plant 40000 plants in  Ladakh region was launched at EJM College on April 11.

The project aims to increase green cover and provide more economic opportunities for local people in the region.  Out of 40000 plantation, 20000 are the locally grown willow and poplar varieties in forest regions and the remaining 20,000 are exotic medicinal plants and herbs with high commercial value. The varieties will be planted at an altitude of 11,482 feet.

Inaugurating the project, Tashi Gyalson, CEC, Hill Council Leh said, "I congratulate the Art of Living and SIDBI for this much needed initiative. Ladakh is one of the most loved tourist places in the country and an initiative like this will enhance the beauty, tourism and economics of the beautiful valley."

S Raman, CMD, SIDBI said, "Project Signature is going to be a significant project for the region because when these plants grow and start producing fruits, woods and herbs, we envision to leave behind a green signature in this heavenly place land that Ladakh is."

Rangaraj Shriramulu, Director, The Art of Living said that the project will be a boon in the time to come, not just to help fight climate change by increasing the green cover but to provide opportunity to ensure the gift of precious medicinal herbs is made available to more people.

The Art of Living has always come forward for the welfare of the people and the planet. So far, it has planted 81 million trees in 36 countries and 26 Indian states.