To overcome the sadness of not having any children, I began planting and nurturing plants like my children. The plants have grown into trees now, said environmentalist Salumarada Thimmakka.
She was addressing the gathering at Ocean Pearl hotel after accepting Vandana award instituted by Rotary Club of Mangalore Central and Rotaract Club of Mangalore City.
“My initiative not only brought me fame, but my village is now known all over the world,” she added.
Cooperation
Salumarada Thimmakka said her village Hulikallu needed a maternity hospital. “I want the cooperation of all in helping the poor. The government should also support the cause. Children should be motivated to plant saplings, nurture them. This will make them develop an interest in nature and their surroundings as they grow,” she added.
For creating awareness on cleanliness and sanitation and taking up a drive on cleanliness, Ramakrishna Mission, Mangaluru was also conferred the Vandana Award. Ramakrishna Mutt head Swami Jithakamananda received the award.
Vocational project
Chairman of the Award Selection Committee Dr Devdas Rai in his introductory address, said that the annual Vandana Award was conferred on achievers and it is a part of the club’s vocational service project.
He congratulated Salumarada Thimmakka and Ramakrishna Mission on their unique achievements in the field of environment protection and empowerment.
Rotary Mangalore Central President Santhosh Shet presided over the programme.