CNN Central News and Network–ITDC India ePress / ITDC News Bhopal: The State Bank of India is not only the country’s largest banking institution, but is also continuously playing a leading role in nation-building, social development and environmental protection. Along with accelerating the country’s progress in areas such as agriculture, industry, trade, startups, digital banking and artificial intelligence-based technological development, the bank is also effectively discharging its responsibilities toward social concerns. Under this commitment, a unique initiative linked to environmental conservation has been undertaken in Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh.
At a time when green spaces are shrinking due to rapid urbanisation, the State Bank of India, BHEL and a local non-governmental organisation have helped develop an oxygen bank that is providing clean air, a green environment and rich biodiversity to the entire area.
In a major step toward environmental protection, biodiversity enhancement and restoration of the natural ecosystem, a 2.5-acre Miyawaki organic forest developed with the support of the State Bank of India at Jamboree Ground in the BHEL Bhopal campus has emerged as an inspiring example across the state. Started in December 2023, this ambitious project has, in about two and a half years, taken the form of a dense, green and vibrant forest, earning wide praise from environmentalists, social workers, educationists and senior citizens.
More than 110 indigenous species of wild, fruit-bearing, flowering and medicinal trees and plants have been planted in this forest. The presence of diverse plant and tree species has created a rich and balanced ecosystem here, giving new life to biodiversity. Today, the area has become a strong centre of natural wealth, green cover and biodiversity.
During observations in the forest area, the presence of 30 to 40 kinds of birds has been recorded. These include some species that are becoming rare in urban areas. In addition, rare species of butterflies, bees and other pollinators are also being seen here in large numbers. This is direct evidence of the forest’s ecological richness and natural balance.
The visionary leadership of then Chief General Manager Chandrashekhar Sharma and the sustained efforts of Anil Kumar Srivastava, Assistant General Manager of the Social Service Banking Department, played an important role in shaping this project. Under their guidance, the project was developed through the Miyawaki method, in which local and natural plant species are planted at high density to create a natural forest-like structure in a short time. As a result, in just two and a half years, the area has taken the form of a dense, self-sustaining and biodiversity-rich forest.
The most important feature of this forest is that it has been developed entirely through organic methods. Only Jeevamrit and Ghan Jeevamrit were used to nourish the plants, and DAP, urea or any other chemical fertilisers were not used at any stage. As a result, the forest has developed in a completely natural and environmentally friendly manner.
Environmentalist Pankaj Bharti and his team have made an extremely important contribution to the development and conservation of this forest. Through their continuous technical guidance, dedication and tireless efforts, the project has now been established as a successful model. His work has been appreciated not only in Bhopal and Madhya Pradesh, but also by many environmental experts and institutions across the country. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has also praised the initiative, describing it as an exemplary model for environmental protection and calling on corporate institutions to promote such efforts.
The State Bank of India supported this project under its corporate social responsibility initiative. With the cooperation of BHEL Bhopal and the technical guidance and continuous conservation efforts of a dedicated non-governmental organisation, the successful development of this unique Miyawaki organic forest at the Jamboree Ground campus became possible.
Environmental experts believe this forest is not merely an example of plantation, but an important initiative toward biodiversity conservation, reducing the effects of climate change, increasing carbon absorption and developing natural habitats in urban areas. Senior citizens and various sections of society have praised the project and described it as a model effort in the field of environmental protection.
According to experts, this dense forest is not only improving air quality but has also become a safe shelter for birds, butterflies, bees and other wildlife. The increase in biodiversity at the local level indicates that if nature is given a favourable environment, it has an extraordinary capacity to revive itself.
This project is not limited to tree plantation alone, but is a strong example of the State Bank of India’s far-sighted thinking, social commitment and resolve toward sustainable development. This Miyawaki-based, fully organic and biodiversity-rich forest has been established as a unique initiative in the state. The forest is also helping raise awareness among the younger generation about nature conservation, biodiversity enhancement and environmental responsibilities. At the same time, by providing a safe natural habitat for birds, butterflies, bees and other wildlife, it is making an important contribution to reducing pollution, improving air quality and keeping the environment clean and balanced.
Among local residents, this forest has now earned recognition as the State Bank of India’s oxygen bank, as it is providing the area with a lasting foundation of clean air, a green environment and rich biodiversity. This effort by the State Bank of India is not only a meaningful step toward a greener future, but also presents an inspiring and exemplary model for the entire state.
Developed in just two and a half years, this Miyawaki organic forest stands as living proof that with the right combination of scientific methods, social participation and institutional support, even ordinary land can be transformed into a dense forest rich in biodiversity within a limited time. Today, this forest has become a living symbol of the State Bank of India’s commitment to nature, the environment and sustainable development, while sending a message of a green, clean and sustainable future to society.
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