M Shyamkumar of Thenkurisi of Palakkad district in Kerala has set an example for the entire country as World Environment Day is celebrated. Despite being an ordinary autorickshaw driver, he has planted more than 20,000 trees with unwavering motivation over the past 26 years. He started this great journey while delivering newspapers on his bicycle. An article in a magazine comparing ten pious sons to a tree made a deep impression on him and he has been engaged in this holy work ever since. He believes that it’s not just about planting trees, it’s about nurturing them properly.
Shyamkumar’s day starts early and while driving an autorickshaw he plants trees on roadsides, government land, schools, hospitals and temple premises. His auto rickshaw always has seedlings, seeds and necessary equipment. His autorickshaw says moram oru baram, meaning tree is a blessing. He uses a very simple drip irrigation method using old bottles and protects the seedlings with bamboo fences to prevent them from drying out. He is also popularly known as Green Army for his solo efforts.
His work is not limited to Kerala, he has also planted trees on roads leading to Puducherry, Kavaratti and Mukambika. One of his most successful projects is the row of palm trees on the banks of the Malapuzha Canal. Additionally, he provides summer water for birds, as he believes birds are the true seed dispersers. Apart from trees, he also plays an active role in pond conservation and other community development activities. He has been awarded several prestigious awards including State Biodiversity Board for his selfless service. After 26 years, his routine remains the same, which means planting trees, protecting them and taking care of them on time.