Pune: Over 5,000 Saplings, 10,000 Food Packets Distributed on Dr Ambedkar Jayanti

Pune, 14th April 2026: Marking the birth anniversary of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, a large-scale social service initiative was organised at Pune Railway Station by the Republican Party of India (Athawale), Pune City.

Continuing its annual tradition, the party conducted a major distribution drive that benefited thousands of citizens. As part of the initiative, more than 5,000 native plant saplings — including peepal, banyan, tulsi, hibiscus, and various fruit-bearing plants — were distributed free of cost. The saplings were made available by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and Nplants Vruksha Savardhan Foundation, with the aim of promoting environmental awareness and encouraging green practices in the city.

In addition to the plant distribution, over 10,000 food packets, laddus, and water bottles were distributed to the public. The initiative received an overwhelming response, with thousands of citizens visiting the stall and participating in the drive.

Several party members and office bearers were present during the programme, including Balasaheb Janrao, Nilesh Rokade (President, Environment Department), Sanjay Sonavne, Sham Sadafule, Mahipal Waghmare, Jaydev Randive, PMC Deputy Mayor Parshuram Wadekar, and PMC Garden Department head Ghorpade.

During the event, Minister Chandrakant Patil visited the stall and appreciated the concept of plant distribution. He commended the initiative for combining environmental awareness with social service.

The organisers said the annual activity reflects their continued commitment to both community welfare and environmental conservation. They also announced plans to expand the initiative next year by distributing books based on the thoughts and teachings of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, with the aim of spreading awareness alongside service.