Initial on-ground surveys by Sambhaav revealed that many schools were situated on land with minimal vegetation and low biological / floral diversity. Additionally, daily meals provided to students often lacked nutritional diversity, relying primarily on standard pre-packed central provisions.
To address these gaps, targeted ecological initiatives were introduced within school campuses. Tree-planting drives focused on a diverse mix of saplings—local, native, medicinal, and fruit-bearing species. Schools received plants such as Neem, Lemon, Karanj, Amaltash (Golden Shower Tree), Mango, Karun, Jamun, Sheesham, Pilkhan, Arjun, Kanjoliya, Shahtoot (Mulberry), Kachnar, Pila Gulmohar and Peepal. This mix is intended to gradually transform barren landscapes, restore local ecology, provide shade, and offer future sources of fruit and medicinal value. In addition, kitchen gardens were established and supported to grow seasonal vegetables and fresh greens, directly enriching school meals with vital nutrients that were previously lacking.
These efforts have not only changed the schools’ physical environments but also fostered a strong sense of environmental responsibility among students. Children have become actively engaged in planting and caring for the new greenery.