Dr Radhakrishna Nair, often referred to as India’s “Green Hero,” believes that preserving greenery and the environment requires creating awareness at a fundamental level, starting with school education. He emphasizes incorporating environmental activities into school curriculums, such as vocational projects focusing on plantation drives and teaching students about eco-friendly practices. Born in Kerala’s Kasargod district, Dr. Nair grew up near Mangaluru, Karnataka, surrounded by lush greenery. This environment instilled in him a deep responsibility to protect nature. After moving to Mumbai for work, he secured a managerial role in the textile industry and later shifted to Umargam, Gujarat, on a promotion.

 

After a decade in this role, he started Shree Paurnika Exports Private Ltd, a business dealing in readymade shirts. However, an incident in 2012 changed his life forever. During a road construction project in Gujarat, Dr Nair witnessed the destruction of hundreds of trees. A bird’s nest fell along with one of the trees, and the cries of the displaced birds deeply moved him. This moment sparked his resolve to work for environmental conservation. Determined to take action, he purchased a piece of land and, using the Miyawaki method, planted 1,500 trees. Developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, this method creates dense forests by planting various tree species close together, mimicking natural ecosystems.

 

Since then, Dr. Nair has collaborated with 12 state governments, including Chhattisgarh, to create over 121 urban forests, restoring ecological balance in cities. Notable among his contributions is the Mahatma Gandhi Oxyzone in Raigarh, Chhattisgarh. Dr. Nair advocates for stricter environmental policies and better implementation of existing ones. He highlights the need for reforesting abandoned mines across the country and prioritizing afforestation in these areas. To combat pollution, he suggests adopting a “Zero Dumping Module” for waste management, focusing on proper segregation and recycling.

 

He emphasizes that urban dumping yards not only harm the environment but also pose risks to human and animal health. Explaining the Miyawaki method, Dr. Nair says it involves planting various tree species within close proximity (about 2 feet apart), creating a forest-like environment. This method not only restores green cover but also provides a habitat for birds and other wildlife, fostering biodiversity. Dr. Nair will be the chief guest at the Mannam Jayanti program organized by Bhilai Nair Samajam at Sector – 8 Bhilai on Thursday, where he will share his journey and inspire others to contribute to environmental conservation.