Prasannan recently graduated from Class 10 in Kodaikanal. The message from the PMO through the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances read, ‘Concern appreciated and suggestion noted’. While recalling the mail he had sent to the Prime Minister last month, the teenager told DT Next on Sunday that he had suggested that all schools be ordered to request each student to plant a tree sapling before joining and also at the time of graduating from schools.

“As we have lost thousands of trees in various calamities, this could be the best remedy to restore balance in the environment. I also request the government to allow adequate space for planting, since people living in housing apartments hardly have any area,” the boy said, adding, humankind can always do its bit to safeguard the surroundings. He said if his proposal works, it would be a victory for the whole nation and India could be setting an example for other countries to follow. The 15-year old further said, everybody in society has to remember that, ‘Trees don’t need us, only we need trees’. Further, he said a time will come when humans might have to carry oxygen cylinders around if trees are not protected.

Prasannan said his love for trees and gardening was an inspiration from his 51-year old father Ajayan, who’s a traditional ayurvedic practitioner. A total of 65 saplings were planted during his days so far, the boy said. Recalling Prasannan’s contributions towards COVID, his father said he donated a prize money of Rs 25, 000, which he received from the sale of his huge canvas painting, to the Chief Minister’s Corona Public Relief Fund.