RNS: In a profound loss to the environmental community, Padma Shri awardee D. Ramaiah, widely revered as the “Tree Man of Telangana,” passed away early this morning in his native village of Reddy Palli, located in Khammam district. He was 84.
Ramaiah reportedly suffered a heart attack and was immediately taken to the Khammam Government Hospital, where he succumbed while undergoing treatment. According to sources close to the family, he had been battling health issues in recent weeks.
Recognized nationally for his unwavering commitment to ecological preservation, Ramaiah was conferred the Padma Shri in 2017. Over his lifetime, he is credited with planting more than one crore saplings across Telangana, becoming a symbol of grassroots environmental activism. His relentless efforts not only transformed barren lands but also inspired thousands to take up green initiatives.
In a tribute to his legacy, the Telangana government recently integrated his life story into the Class 6 curriculum, aiming to educate and motivate future generations about the importance of conservation.
Condolences poured in from across the political spectrum. Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy, Minister of State B. Sanjay Kumar, Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka, and former minister T. Harish Rao, among others, expressed grief and lauded Ramaiah’s lifelong dedication to protecting the environment.
Ramaiah’s passing marks the end of an era, but his green legacy will continue to thrive through the countless trees he nurtured and the minds he inspired.
