BNHS, Tata Power partner to plant 2.7 lakh native saplings using Miyawaki plantation in Mulshi

Mumbai: The Bombay Natural History Society has partnered with Tata Power to launch a Miyawaki afforestation initiative at its hydro generating stations in Mulshi in Pune district. 

Using the Miyawaki technique, 2.7 lakh native saplings including 54 indigenous species will be planted to restore biodiversity, enhance carbon capture, recharge groundwater, and reduce siltation.

The initiative marks a significant step towards restoring native biodiversity, increasing green cover, and supporting Tata Power’s long-term sustainability goals.

As part of the partnership, Tata Power will identify and provide suitable land parcels around its catchment region, offer research-based insights on native species, while BNHS will lead the on-ground implementation, monitoring, and ecological management of the Miyawaki plantations. 

The project will be executed in three phases over five years across 47 acres in the villages of Adgaon and Barpe near Mulshi. 

The Miyawaki method is a proven technique for creating dense, fast-growing, and self-sustaining native forests in limited spaces. 

By planting native species in carefully selected combinations and layers, the technique fosters natural habitat restoration, significantly enhances soil quality, improves water retention, and supports pollinators and other wildlife. Its application in the ecologically sensitive hydro catchment zones of Mulshi will not only restore biodiversity but also build natural climate buffers and contribute to long-term ecosystem resilience.

“This initiative is vital for conserving fragile ecosystems and enhancing native biodiversity. Collaborating with an organisation that has nation-building and ecological stewardship at its core makes this endeavour truly meaningful for us,” said BNHS President Praveensingh Pardeshi, who is also the CEO of Maharashtra Institution for Transformation (MITRA).

“With this initiative, we aim to create a measurable impact in conserving biodiversity and fostering sustainable development in the region,” added BNHS Director Kishor Rithe.

“For over a century, Tata Power’s hydro operations in the Western Ghats have been a testament to harmonising development with nature. This Miyawaki afforestation initiative in partnership with BNHS builds on that legacy, restoring critical ecosystems, reviving native biodiversity, and reinforcing our commitment to climate-resilient growth. Rooted in science, this collaboration reflects our vision of sustainability that goes beyond business to serve as a long-term custodian of India’s natural heritage,” said Himal Tewari, CHRO, Chief – Sustainability & CSR, Tata Power.

The Miyawaki method is a proven technique for creating dense, fast-growing, and self-sustaining native forests in limited spaces. By planting native species in carefully selected combinations and layers, the technique fosters natural habitat restoration, significantly enhances soil quality, improves water retention, and supports pollinators and other wildlife. Its application in the ecologically sensitive hydro catchment zones of Mulshi will not only restore biodiversity but also build natural climate buffers and contribute to long-term ecosystem resilience.