2024-11-30

A butterfly garden is one of the most effective models for conserving small wildlife, even within urban human settlements. TIES has created and is maintaining a butterfly garden at the Kottayam Collectorate, which hosts 35-45 native and wild plant species. The garden also serves as an informal education hub, with informational boards and signage about butterflies and their host plants.

In a remarkable display of community spirit and environmental stewardship, TIES collaborated with the Seed Club members and staff of St. Joseph’s Convent Girls’ High School, Kottayam, to rejuvenate the Butterfly Garden at Kottayam Civil Station. The program was inaugurated by Ms. Beena P. Ananth, Additional District Magistrate, Kottayam.

Students and staff from the school, under the guidance of Dr. Punnen Kurian, Secretary of TIES, and Mr. Sarath Babu N. B., Nature Education Officer at TIES, worked diligently to clean the garden, removing weeds and debris to restore its natural beauty. They carefully pruned overgrown plants to maintain the garden’s structure and promote healthy growth. In addition, the team planted a variety of host and nectar plants to attract and support butterfly populations, ensuring a sustainable habitat for these important pollinators. Organic fertilizers were applied to enrich the soil and boost plant health. This collective effort highlights the importance of community participation in preserving urban biodiversity and serves as a model for sustainable urban development and environmental stewardship.

The program was coordinated by Mr. Usha Bindhumol K. (Deputy Collector), Mr. Jinu Punnoose (Deputy Collector (LA)), Mr. Soman (Huzur Sheristadar), and Mr. Senil Varghese (Senior Clerk) from Kottayam Collectorate, along with faculty members from St. Joseph’s CGHS: Ms. Sridevi G. R., Ms. Shilpa S., Ms. Susan Koshy, Ms. Vishnupriya P. S., Ms. Misha Tomy, and Ms. Veenamol V. Representatives from TIES included Ms. Megha Babu.

This initiative underscores the significance of preserving urban biodiversity and fostering community engagement for a greener and more sustainable future.