In a certain forest, two trees were very much upset because the lions deposited the remains of the animal carcass among the trees spreading foul odour in the whole forest. Frustrated by the situation, the trees resolved to get rid of the lions somehow. Though an elderly tree cautioned them of the possible risks, the two trees were adamant in their decision to chase away the lions from the forest.

On the following day, swaying in unison with the wind, the trees made terrific noise and created a frightening atmosphere. The lions, thinking that something terrible was about to happen, ran away from that forest. Soon the news spread in the villages around that there were no more lions in that forest, and so people came armed with sows and axes, entered the forest, and started chopping down the trees starting with those two disturbed trees. Then they realized their folly and the wisdom of the elderly tree.

As we commemorate in this month of March, World Wildlife Day (3), World Forest Day (21), and World Water Day (22), we need to recognize the harmonious balance between trees, animals, water and humans as the essence of a healthy ecosystem. Trees, often referred to as the lungs of the Earth, provide oxygen and mitigate climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide. Animals too, both on land and in water, contribute to biodiversity, helping to maintain ecological balance. Water, the source of life, is indispensable for all living organisms. However, thoughtless human activities such as deforestation, pollution, and over-extraction of water resources jeopardize this delicate equilibrium.

Preserving biodiversity is vital for the survival of various species of flora and fauna and the overall health of the planet. Conservation efforts, reforestation initiatives and sustainable water management practices are of paramount importance to restore and maintain harmony among trees, animals, and water. Wildlife sanctuaries and protected areas play a pivotal role in safeguarding the endangered species and preserving their habitats.

We celebrate International Women’s Day on 8 March, globally acknowledging and appreciating women’s achievements and advocating gender equality in every field. Recognizing the interconnectedness of environmental and social issues, it is imperative to address the man-woman ratio in the context of preserving nature. Women, often disproportionately affected by environmental degradation, can play a crucial role in sustainable development and conservation.

As stewards of our planet, we must recognize and support the interconnectedness of plants, animals, the Earth, and human relationships. Supporting and maintaining the balance in nature is not just our responsibility; but it is our collective obligation that transcends boundaries.

Most of you are busy this month with your annual examinations. The Teenager Today wishes all of you a stress-free preparation, successful and cool execution and glorious results!

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As a child, I hated the rains, though I did brave them. In those times, when an umbrella was a precious possession, I would lose my umbrella and get a scolding for being careless. As a fifth grader, I firmly resolved not to use an umbrella, and managed my time as a school student up to grade ten. I hated the rains because they invariably happened whenever we went on very rare trips or tours.

In 1983, during an unusually long summer, while travelling by train to North India, I was shocked to see coconut palms drooping and their fronds withering in the waterless summer. It was then that I sensed the great blessings of the rains and water.

Water for Life — The Global Scenario

World consciousness collectively responded to the vital significance of water in 1993 with the U.N. observing World Water Day (22 March). The scientific world noticed a missing beat. The normal water cycle involves water in the water bodies, the soil and in the glaciers evaporating or escaping from the trees through transpiration, condensation and then returning to these sources or beneath the earth as ground water. This cycle is disrupted by human interference through ground water extraction, felling of the surface tree cover and construction activities, leading to a rapid run-off and displacement or lowering of ground water level. Further, industrial, agricultural and domestic effluents entering water bodies and ground water have contaminated waters, posing a health hazard.  

The realisation of the urgency behind the issue led to SDG (Sustainable Development Goal) 6 — Safe Water and Sanitation for All. Water is a basic requirement for everyone, affecting all domains of life, including health, hunger, sanitation, gender equality, jobs, agriculture, industry, transportation, weather, disasters, migration and peace! Hence it has been made part of the global development agenda as the sixth development goal for 2030. 

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