Social Internship

[Community Engagement and Social Responsibility]

24 UCI 203

Final Report
 Social Internship Report
3rd June 2024– 9th June 2024

University School of Science

Submitted by: Submitted to:

Name:Karanvir singh Name of the Social Internship Coordinator: Ms Rajni goel
UID:23BNM20018 Department Name: Mathematics
Section: A Institute Name: Chandigarh University
Program: BSC CSM
 Acknowledgement
With deep appreciation, I would like to thank everyone who helped make
the internship project "Tree Plantation Drive: Growing a Greener Future" a
success. This undertaking would not have been feasible without the resolute
assistance, direction, and inspiration from numerous people and institutions.

I would want to express my gratitude to all of the community members,

volunteers who took part in the tree planting events. Their passion,
commitment, and diligence have been essential to the project's success.

First and foremost, I would want to express my sincere gratitude to Ms

Rajni goel, who oversaw my internship and gave me great guidance
throughout. Their knowledge, perceptions, and helpful criticism have been
crucial in determining the course and results of this project.

Finally, I want to express my gratitude to my friends, family, and coworkers

for their constant support, tolerance, and understanding along this journey.
 Index
S.No Chapter Page Page
required No.
1 Introduction 1 5

2 Review of Literature 1 6

3 Methodology 1 7

4 Day wise Activities List 1-2 8-9

5 Daily Diary Summary 2 10

6 Profile of Study Area 3-4 11-13

7 Addressing Various Socio-Economic 1 14

Challenges
8 Local Governance and Decentralization at 1-5 15-19
village
9 Findings 1-3 20-22

10 Suggestions & Recommendation 1-2 23-24

11 Conclusion 1 25

12 References 1 26

13 Photo Evidence 1-2 27-28

 Introduction

Drives to plant trees have become a major environmental effort to stop

deforestation, slow down climate change, and increase biodiversity. Eco-
friendly and sustainable methods are becoming more and more important as
urbanization and industry grow. Through the proactive planting of trees,
communities, organizations, and people are able to solve these
environmental concerns as part of the "Tree Plantation Drive: Growing a
GreenerFuture"project.

This internship report's main goal is to record and evaluate the extensive
efforts carried out during the tree planting push, emphasizing the
approaches, results, and long-term effects of these kinds of projects. The
design, implementation, and assessment stages of the project are thoroughly
described in this study, which highlights the value of tree planting in
improving urban green spaces.
 Review of literature

The research on tree plantation drives emphasizes how important it is to

solve environmental issues including urban heat islands, climate change,
and deforestation. Numerous studies have emphasized the many advantages
of planting trees, highlighting how it helps with soil conservation,
biodiversity enhancement, and carbon sequestration. As an example,
Nowak et al. (2013) showed that urban trees greatly enhance air quality by
supplying oxygen and screening contaminants. Furthermore, Chazdon et al.
(2016)'s research on forest restoration highlights the significance of tree
plantations in biodiversity hotspots, where reforestation initiatives can
maintain wildlife habitats and rehabilitate degraded ecosystems. There is
also a wealth of research on community involvement in tree plantation
efforts. Krasny and Tidball's (2012) studies show how these programs
promote social cohesion and environmental stewardship. Additionally,
effective case studies have emphasized the many advantages of planting
trees, including their ability to sequester carbon. B from different locations
demonstrate best practices in organizing, carrying out, and maintaining tree
plantation projects. According to Calderon et al. (2018), these include the
use of native species, ongoing observation, and community education
initiatives. When taken as a whole, the literature gives a strong framework
for comprehending the crucial role that tree plantation drives play as well as
insightful advice on how to carry out successful and long-lasting tree
planting campaigns.
 Methodology
The "Tree Plantation Drive: Growing a Greener Future" internship report's
methodology includes a methodical approach to the initiative's conception,
implementation, and assessment. In order to find good places for planting,
the project started with a detailed site assessment that took into account
variables including soil quality, water availability, and environmental
impact. Establishing partnerships with neighborhood associations and
environmental advocacy groups helped us gather resources and support.
Based on ecological benefits and appropriateness, native species were
prioritized in order to increase ecosystem resilience and biodiversity.

The process of planting was divided into several stages, the first of which
was site preparation, which included removing the area of debris and
preparing the soil. Following the mobilization of volunteers for the planting
sessions, they were instructed in appropriate planting practices to guarantee
high rates of sapling survival. A key component of the approach was data
collecting, which included keeping track of the kinds of trees planted, their
GPS positions for later observation, and their numbers. Regular watering,
mulching, and insect protection were all part of the post-planting care. In
order to gauge the social impact of the campaign, community feedback
questionnaires were conducted in addition to recurrent site visits to evaluate
the health and growth of the trees. By using an organized approach, the tree
plantation effort was made broad and sustainable, with the goal of long-
term environmental and community benefits.
 Day Wise Activities List

S.No Day Date Activity Brief Description of Objective of Outcome of

Name Activity / visit Activity / visit Activity /
visit

1 Monda 3-6- Tree The day was a Tree We get

y 2024 Plantation combination of Plantation knowledge
Drive: friendship and hard about tree
Growing a work, providing plantation
Greener insightful
Future knowledge on
environmental
preservation.
2 Tuesda 4-6- Tree First at 4pm I go to Plant Flowers Meet with
y 2024 Plantation our community at community temple
Drive: temple in temple. peoples and
Growing a padiala.Ask the discover
Greener temple members about temple
Future can I plant flowers history.
in your temple.I
gave them all the
info about my
internship after this
they give me
permission to plant
trees and flowers.
3 Wedne 5-6- Tree There is no major Planting Green
sday 2024 Plantation point of the day I flowers in Environment
Drive: simply just palnt a gurudwara .
Growing a tree at gurudwara
Greener and come back
Future home.
4 Thursd 6-6- Tree There is no major Planting trees Green
ay 2024 Plantation point of the day I and flowers at Environment
Drive: simply just palnt a different sites
Growing a flower at my cousin in village.
Greener home and come
Future back home.
5 Friday Tree Today I visit Growing a Green
Plantation different places for Greener Environment
Drive: tree\flower Environment .
Growing a plantation. Planting
Greener plants at different
Future fields and at
roadsides. At the
end I visit nearby
colony searching
for parks to do
planting. After
achieving our
plantation goal I
play cricket with
the colony people
and have so much
fun.
 Daily Diary Summary

Week 1 : The first week of tree plantation drive is neutral . I visit so many sites for
tree plantation. The first week boost my confidence and communication skills to
communicate with different people.

Week 2:

Week 3:

Week 4:
 Profile of Study Area [Village information]

History
Village PADIALA Situated in the Sas Nagar District lies PADIALA
Panchayat KHARAR. The villagers live in great harmony with one another.
This community has a rich and distinguished past. This village's primary
occupation is agriculture. This hamlet is still waiting for industrial growth.
This village's top priorities are roads, electricity, drinking water, and
education. These days, the younger generation is more drawn to technology
on their phones, laptops, and computers. This village would see true
development if banks and other financial organizations provide the villagers
with loans and other forms of financial support. It is necessary to enhance
medical and health services.

Demographics of Padiala
Punjabi is the Local Language here.

Politics in Padiala
SAD , BSP , INC are the major political parties in this area.
Polling Stations /Booths near Padiala
1)Govt.el School Sainimajra
2)Govt. El. School Badarpur
3)Govt. Ele. School Padiala (left Side)
4)Govt Elementary School Kausauli
5)Govt High School Mudho Sangtian (right Side)

HOW TO REACH Padiala

By Rail
Kurali Rail Way Station , Kharar Rail Way Station are the very nearby
railway stations to Padiala.

Colleges near Padiala

Cgc College
Address :
Rattan Professional Education College
Address :
Guru Nanak Dev College Of Education
Address :
Rayat & Bahara Institute Of Pharmacy
Address :
Rayat & Bahra Institute Of Hotel Management
Address :
Schools near Padiala
Gmsss Kharar
Address : ward no. 10 , kharar , mohali , Punjab . PIN- 140301 , Post -
Kharar (Rupnagar)

Address : sector-69 mohali , kharar , mohali , Punjab . PIN- 160062 , Post

- Chandigarh Sector 67
Vivek Sr Sec School
Address : nayagaon , kharar , mohali , Punjab . PIN- 160103 , Post - Naya
Gaon (Mohali)
Gms Majatri
Address : majatri , kharar , mohali , Punjab . PIN- 140307 , Post - Landran
Govt Health Centers near Padiala
1) PADIALA , Sub Centre Padiala
2) BARODI , Sub Centre Barodi
3) ALLAHPUR , Sub Centre Allahpur
 Addressing Various Socio-Economic
Challenges

The Tree Plantation Drive, with the motto "Growing a Greener Future,"
skillfully tackles a range of socioeconomic issues by promoting
environmental sustainability, job possibilities, and community
cohesiveness. Through community engagement, especially in areas of
economic need, the effort fosters social cohesion and a sense of collective
responsibility. The maintenance of long-term environmental activities
depends on this sense of communal ownership. Additionally, by
incorporating local children and marginalized groups in the planting,
upkeep, and monitoring of the seedlings, the effort generates employment
possibilities. This improves participants' employability in the long run by
giving them horticultural and environmental management skills in addition
to immediate financial gains. Furthermore, more greenery improves air
quality and lessens the effects of urban heat islands, making living
conditions better. These enhancements to the environment can lower the
cost of healthcare and enhance general wellbeing, especially for groups that
are more vulnerable. The Tree Plantation Drive promotes a more just and
sustainable society in addition to a greener future by tackling these
socioeconomic factors.
 Local Governance and Decentralization

Introduction

Decentralisation has been institutionalised in Kerala in the last two decades.

It has been a long process of decentralisation in administration, innovative
methods of implementation with a clear vision and purpose. Many
milestones have been crossed in the process. Devolution of approximately
one fourth the plan funds with clear formulae is the most important among
them. But dual control over the functionaries and lack of role clarity for the
different tiers remain a major weakness. Despite the weakness Panchayati
Raj Institutions have built millions of kilometres of rural roads and
provided drinking water, housing etc for the poor and marginalised.

Major thrust in different plan periods

Decentralization initiated following the 73rd and 74th amendments to the

Indian Constitution has given greater responsibility and powers to the local
governments for local planning, effective implementation and monitoring of
various social and economic development programmes. In Kerala, the
process of decentralization was launched as ‘People’s Plan Campaign’ with
a view to emphasize the concept of participatory planning that was new to
the people, people’s representatives and officials in local governments. But
conscientisation was found quite essential. Under the 10thPlan,
decentralization programme in Kerala was restructured and named ‘Kerala
Development Plan’ (KDP) after analysing the experience of Peoples Plan
Campaign. A number of innovative steps were taken under KDP to
strengthen and institutionalize decentralization in the State. During the
11th Plan, Government revamped the entire process, giving stress to the
concept of ‘People’s Planning’ focusing on the completion of the process of
institutionalization of decentralization. In order to make the system more
efficient and effective the 12th plan approach envisaged some concrete
steps to strengthen the institutions as well as the planning process. Kerala
has become a role model not only in participatory planning at the local level
but also in devolving functions, finance and powers to Local Governments.

Plan Allocation to Local Governments

8.2 Financial devolution is the most important element of Kerala’s

decentralization process, which has enabled the Local Governmets to
receive resources from the State’s Plan allocation as Development Fund for
implementing own schemes as well as transferred schemes. The fund
provided from the state plan to Local Governmets is in the form of untied
plan grant for planning and implementing projects for local
development. Local Governmets have the freedom in formulating and
implementing projects after deciding their priority subject to an overall
framework.

8.3 At present, there are 1200 local governments in Kerala, 941 Grama
Panchayats, 152 Block Panchayats, 14 District Panchayats, 87
Municipalities and 6 Corporations. The allocation of development fund to
LGs is being done under three categories - General Sector, Special
Component Plan (SCP) and Tribal Sub Plan (TSP). The outlay for each
category was fixed on the basis of the recommendations of the IVth State
Finance Commission (SFC). The Commission recommended that at least
25% of the likely plan size should be devolved to LGs for development
purpose. The fund would be inclusive of the devolution from the 13th
Finance Commission and the amount flowing to LGs from the proposed
World Bank supported project namely, ‘Kerala Local Government Service
Delivery Project’. Even while the yearly step-up is strongly recommended,
it would be subject to the free plan outlay available each year. However,
under no circumstance should any year’s allocation be less than 25% of
plan size assumed by the Commission for that year. The recommended
allocation to Local Self Governmets by the IVth State Finance Commission
and actual allocation done so far is given in Table 8.1

Table 8.1
Award of Development Fund for LGs (2011-16)
(Rs. in crore)
Amount Actual Percentage to
Year proposed by SFC allocation Total Plan Outlay*
2011-12 2750.00 2750.00 25
2012-13 3388.00 3228.00 23
2013-14 3933.00 4000.00 24
2014-15 4559.00 4700 .00 24
2015-16 5193.00 4800 .00 24
*Inclusive of KSEB’s contribution
Source: 4th State Finance Commission Report & Appendix IV of the
Budget

Special Component Plan and Tribal Sub Plan under Decentralization

8.4 The Special Component Plan and Tribal Sub Plan are based on Article
46 of Constitution of India for providing special protective measures to
safeguard the interest of Scheduled Caste(SCs) and Scheduled
Tribe(STs).This constitutional mandate on the State requires it ‘to create a
regime of equality including social equality through comprehensive
measures of social justice.’ Social equality means ensuring equity between
Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and other marginalized sections on the
one hand, and socially advanced castes on the other, in all parameters of
life- economic, occupational, educational, residential facilities, health,
nutrition etc.’ As one of the major objectives of decentralized planning is to
improve the socio-economic status of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled
Tribes and enhancing their quality of life conscious efforts have to be made
at all levels of government for the effective implementation of SCP/TSP.

8.5 The allocation of Plan funds to SCP and TSP from State Plan outlay is
done according to the ratio of population of SCs and STs to total population
of the State. Out of the total SCP/TSP Plan outlay, a certain percentage of
funds are earmarked to LGs for implementation of schemes under
decentralized planning. The projects under the SCP/TSP can be categorized
into two viz, the beneficiary oriented schemes and infrastructural
development schemes. The outlay and expenditure for each category is
shown in Table 8.2.

Table: 8.2
SCP & TSP Allocation& Expenditure of the LGs (2010-11 to 2014-15)
(Rs. in Crore)
Year SCP TSP Total
 Allocatio Expenditure Allocatio Expenditure Allocatio Expenditure
n * n * n *
2010
589.49 484.03 88.47 78.28 677.96 562.31
-11
2011
660.23 697.69 99.09 93.07 759.32 790.76
-12
2012
739.46 661.58 110.98 99.65 850.44 761.23
-13
2013
828.2 882.49 124.3 136.89 952.5 1019.38
-14
2014
927.58 811.56 139.21 121.61 1066.80 933.17
-15
*includes opening balance
Source: Appendix IV of the Budget & Information Kerala Mission,2015

Unique features of LGs plan during the 12th Five Year Plan

8.6 During the beginning of twelfth plan period some conscious efforts
have been made to give more flexibility and freedom to the local
governments for plan formulation. Accordingly, some changes have been
made in the plan guidelines, mainly in sectoral ceilings and project
appraisal. Now there is no mandatory minimum or maximum ceiling in
productive or service sector. However, in infrastructure sector the
mandatory ceiling fixed is not more than 45 per cent to Grama Panchayats
and Block Panchayats, 55 per cent to Municipalities and Corporations and
50 per cent to District Panchayats in general sector plan outlay. In addition
to this, 10 per cent of the development fund must be earmarked for women
component plan and 5 per cent to children, old age, differently abled,
palliative care and other vulnerable groups. The Annual Plan Document
of local governments only needs to be approved by the District Planning
Committees (DPCs) instead of approving individual projects.

8.7 Technical Advisory Groups (TAG) which are seen to be points of delay
in clearances of projects were dispensed with. Instead of vetting the projects
by the TAG concerned, it is verified and certified by the implementing
officer and then furnished to the officer of the same department at the
higher level for getting it appraised and approved. A Project Formulation
Committee (PFC) can be constituted, if required, for providing technical
expertise to prepare and approve the projects.

8.8 It is also important to note that now under SCP/TSP the construction of
roads is allowed within SC/ST habitat. Width of the road in tribal colonies
has been enhanced to a maximum of 3 metres. Introduction of financial
support for SCs/STs in getting employment abroad, assistance to
meritorious students seeking admission in national and international
institutions are some of the landmarks in the utilization of SCP/TSP funds.
Introduction of online approval of projects through Sulekha software is
considered as a major shift from the traditional approach adopted by the
TAG system. The application of Sulekha software includes plan
formulation, appraisal, approval, monitoring, revision processes and
expenditure tracking of the plan projects of local governments.

8.9 Another important change is the introduction of special grama sabhas,

ayal sabhas and seva grams- gramakendrams. In order to strengthen
grama/ward sabha ayal sabhas are constituted in each ward with 50- 100
families. Special grama sabha are convened for the families of differently
abled and mentally challenged persons. Ayal Sabhas and Seva Gram-
Gramakendram thus aims at getting people’s participation in planning and
implementation.
 Findings

Community Engagement and Social Impact

1. Enhanced Community Involvement

 The drive successfully mobilized a diverse group of community

members, including students, local businesses, NGOs, and
government bodies.
 High levels of participation indicate strong community support and
interest in environmental initiatives.

2. Educational Outcomes

 Educational workshops and activities raised awareness about

environmental conservation.
 Participants, especially students, gained valuable knowledge about the
importance of trees and biodiversity.

Economic Benefits

3. Job Creation and Skill Development

 Temporary employment opportunities were created for local residents

involved in planting and maintenance.
 Participants acquired skills in horticulture, environmental
management, and community organizing, potentially enhancing their
employability in related fields.

4. Boost to Local Economy

 The involvement of local businesses in sponsoring and supporting the

drive stimulated local economic activity.
 Increased green spaces can attract tourism and improve property
values, benefiting the local economy in the long run.
Environmental Impact

5. Increased Green Cover

 Over 500 saplings were planted in various locations, contributing to

increased green cover.
 The new trees are expected to improve air quality, reduce urban heat
island effects, and enhance local biodiversity.

6. Long-term Sustainability

 The implementation of a care schedule and community-based

monitoring ensures the long-term survival and health of the planted
saplings.
 Educational efforts have instilled a sense of responsibility among
community members to continue caring for the environment.

Health and Well-being

7. Improved Public Health

 Increased tree cover can lead to better air quality, reducing respiratory
issues and other health problems.
 Green spaces provide recreational areas, promoting physical activity
and mental well-being.

8. Enhanced Climate Resilience

 Trees play a crucial role in climate regulation by sequestering carbon

and providing shade.
 The drive contributes to greater climate resilience for the community,
mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events.

Overall Conclusion
The Tree Plantation Drive: Growing a Greener Future has demonstrated
significant positive outcomes across social, economic, and environmental
dimensions. By fostering community engagement, creating job
opportunities, and improving local environmental conditions, the initiative
has laid a strong foundation for a more sustainable and equitable future.
These findings highlight the drive's success in not only enhancing green
cover but also in addressing broader socio-economic challenges, making it a
model for future social internships and environmental programs.
 Suggestions & Recommendation

1. Getting Ready for an Internship

Educational Background: Become familiar with the fundamentals of
community engagement tactics, tree planting techniques, and environmental
protection.
Research: To identify optimal techniques and possible obstacles, review
previous tree planting campaigns and their results.
Networking: Make contact with neighborhood associations, governmental
organizations, and environmental organizations in your area that are
working on related projects.
2. Practical Planting Activities for Interns: Engage in active tree planting to
have hands-on experience with planting methods, site preparation, and
taking care of saplings.
Community Engagement: Help design and lead awareness campaigns,
educational workshops, and community gatherings to highlight the value of
planting trees.
Data gathering and analysis: Assist in gathering information on the success
of the initiative, such as sapling survival rates, community involvement
levels, and environmental effects.
Social Media Administration: Encourage the team responsible for social
media account management, content creation, and tracking the development
of the effort to reach a larger audience.
3. Opportunities for Skill Development
Project Management: Gain expertise in project management by helping to
organize, plan, and carry out the drive's numerous components.
Teamwork and Leadership: Collaborate closely with various volunteer
groups, community members, and stakeholders to hone your teamwork and
leadership abilities.
Communication Skills: Write reports or blog posts on the internship
experience, engage in public speaking events, and engage with the
community to improve your communication skills.
Environmental Education: Through workshops, seminars, and field trips,
learn about environmental challenges, sustainable practices, and the role
that trees play in reducing the effects of climate change.
4. Collaboration and Networking
Networking Opportunities: Make use of these to establish connections with
industry experts. specialists and advocates for the preservation of the
environment.
joint Projects: To optimize effect and reach, look into options for joint
projects with other institutions or groups working on related causes.
5. Introspection and Education
Reflection Sessions: Hold regular reflection meetings with mentors or
supervisors to assess your development, pinpoint your advantages and
disadvantages, and establish goals for both your career and personal
growth.
Constant Learning: Through independent study, online courses,
conferences, and workshops, stay current on new advancements, scientific
discoveries, and creative methods in the field of environmental
conservation.
 Conclusion

Despite its inherent drawbacks, The Tree Plantation Drive: Growing a

Greener Future presents a meaningful and enriching internship opportunity.
Interns can make a significant contribution to community involvement,
environmental protection, and personal development by actively
participating in a variety of activities. The internship prepares interns for
future employment in environmental management, community
development, or similar disciplines by offering invaluable practical
experience, chances for skill development, and networking opportunities.

Even while the drive has a great deal of potential to improve things, it is
important to recognize and deal with its shortcomings. These comprise
obstacles including inadequate long-term effect assessments, reliance on
community involvement, susceptibility to environmental elements, limited
resources, difficulties with land use and urban planning, and social and
cultural aspects. Through acknowledging these constraints and cooperating
to surmount them, interns can play a role in enhancing
the Tree Plantation Drive more inclusive, efficient, and long-lasting.

Through their internship, interns can improve their communication and

teamwork skills, get a greater awareness of environmental challenges, and
cultivate a feeling of responsibility for environmental and community
stewardship. Interns can meaningfully contribute to the drive while gaining
important insights and skills that will help them in their future pursuits by
actively engaging with stakeholders, reflecting on their experiences, and
embracing continuous learning.

In conclusion, the internship program Tree Plantation Drive: Growing a

Greener Future offers interns a special chance to positively impact their
communities while acquiring invaluable skills for both professional and
personal growth. Despite its shortcomings, the drive inspires people to
become good change agents by acting as a catalyst.
 References

 Government of India. (2014). National Mission for a Green India

 http://www.onefivenine.com/india/villages/S.A.S-
Nagar/Kharar/Padiala
Photo Evidences