Pawan Kalyan Kicks Off Mega 25-Million Seed Ball Mission for a Greener Andhra

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan on Friday launched a statewide afforestation drive by inaugurating the production of 25 million seed balls during World Environment Day celebrations at the Butterfly Park in Mulapadu, NTR district.

Participating alongside public representatives, officials, self-help group members, students and volunteers, Kalyan prepared seed balls using seeds from indigenous tree species such as neem, banyan, tamarind, bamboo, Indian gooseberry and other native varieties.

The initiative is being implemented at nearly 300 locations across the state. Through a video conference from Mulapadu, Kalyan interacted with participants from different districts, reviewed progress and called for collective efforts to strengthen environmental conservation . He directed officials to complete the production target of 25 million seed balls by June 15 .

He also reviewed the use of drones to disperse seed balls across hilltops and other inaccessible areas as part of the state's large-scale greening programme.

During the visit, Kalyan inspected Forest Department stalls and appreciated the eco-tourism model at the park. He instructed officials to establish similar yoga facilities in eco-tourism parks across Andhra Pradesh.

Interacting with traditional artisans, he examined Kondapalli wooden toys and handcrafted products made by Udayagiri artisans. Responding to concerns over the shortage of timber for toy-making, he assured them that the government would work towards setting up a dedicated Wood Bank to improve access to raw materials.

To support traditional crafts, Kalyan promised better marketing opportunities and directed officials to hold regular meetings with artisan communities. He also suggested commissioning a wooden statue of freedom fighter and former Hyderabad State Chief Minister Burgula Ramakrishna Rao through local craftsmen.

Mylavaram MLA Vasantha Krishna Prasad, Forest and Environment Department Special Chief Secretary Kantilal Dande, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests P.V. Chalapathi Rao and NTR District Collector Lakshmisha were among those present at the event.