Smrithivanam is an ongoing ecological restoration and memorial forest initiative led by Thanal Trust, in partnership with KIMS Health as part of its CSR commitment, and Meenangadi Gramapanchayat.
Launched on 12 October 2025 at Purakkadi Poomala Paradevatha Kshethram, Meenangadi, the project is envisioned as a living tribute to poet and environmentalist Sugathakumari Teacher, combining ecological regeneration with community memory and learning.
Rapid land degradation, declining native vegetation, and loss of biodiversity in the Western Ghats region have reduced the ecological resilience of many local landscapes. Restoring degraded land using native species is essential to revive soil health, support biodiversity, regulate microclimates, and create long-term green assets for communities.
Smrithivanam addresses this need by transforming degraded land into a self-sustaining forest ecosystem rooted in local ecology and collective stewardship. Thanal designed Smrithivanam as a long-term ecological restoration site, focusing on native tree planting, community participation, and continuous ecological monitoring.
Key elements of the intervention include:
- Restoration of 3 acres using native species of the Western Ghats
- Development of a memorial forest integrating fruit trees, flowering species, and mixed forest vegetation
- Active involvement of local communities, students, volunteers, and cultural practitioners
- Ongoing ecological monitoring to ensure survival, growth, and ecosystem stability
The initiative was formally inaugurated in the presence of poets, students, NSS volunteers, and community members, reinforcing the project’s cultural and ecological significance.
Impact at a Glance
- 500 saplings planted and nurtured (ongoing)
- 10,000 saplings planned as part of long-term restoration
- 120+ participants engaged during the launch and early activities
- Continuous ecological monitoring in place
- Strengthened community ownership of conservation efforts
Long-Term Value
- Biodiversity revival: Native vegetation supports birds, pollinators, and wildlife
- Climate resilience: Improved soil health, moisture retention, and microclimate regulation
- Cultural continuity: A living memorial that connects ecology, poetry, and place
- Replicable CSR model: A scalable approach to memorial forests and community-led restoration
Our Approach to CSR Partnerships
Thanal works with CSR partners to co-create community-centred, ecologically responsible initiatives. Each project is designed for long-term relevance, local ownership, and sustainability beyond the funding period.