The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has called upon all affiliated State and Union Territory Olympic Associations to organise a nationwide tree plantation drive, planting 2036 trees each as part of this year’s Olympic Day celebrations.
Olympic Day is observed globally on June 23 every year to commemorate the founding of the International Olympic Committee in 1894, marking the birth of the modern Olympic Games. The first Olympic Day celebration was held in 1948.
In a communication issued by IOA President P. T. Usha, the association emphasised that the initiative aims to highlight the Olympic Movement’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility while encouraging communities across India to celebrate Olympic Day through meaningful environmental action.
“The nationwide plantation drive aligns with the International Olympic Committee’s Olympic Forest initiative and reflects India’s growing commitment to environmental stewardship through sport. The symbolic plantation of 2036 trees represents the Olympic Movement’s aspiration to build a greener and more sustainable future,” the IOA said in a statement.
The IOA has encouraged State and UT Olympic Associations to collaborate with local sports bodies, educational institutions, athletes, youth organisations and government agencies to ensure broad participation and long-term impact.
Plantation activities may be organised at sports facilities, schools, parks and other public spaces to maximise community engagement and raise awareness about sustainability through sport.
The IOA has also requested affiliated units to document their activities and share brief reports and photographs so the nationwide effort can be showcased as part of India’s Olympic Day celebrations.
The initiative reinforces the Olympic Movement’s broader vision of building a healthier and better world through sport while promoting environmental sustainability for future generations.