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January 2025
4th January: 4th Butterfly garden at Kalamboli police station
We’re thrilled to share a milestone in our journey towards creating greener spaces and supporting biodiversity! The 4th Butterfly Garden under the Butterfly Patrol Project has been successfully completed, and this time, it's at the Kalamboli Police Station! A huge thank you to station in charge Mr. Dharne and coordinator Mr. Shirke and everyone who contributed their time, energy, and passion to bring this garden to life.
5th January: Forest Fire Initiative at Taloja Hill
We recently launched our Forest Fire Initiative at Taloja Hill, starting with a site introduction and safety discussion on 4th January, followed by an awareness drive on 5th January led by our dedicated volunteers, Mriganka and Satish. The drive educated 15 visitors about fire risks and safe practices, with over 70% appreciating the effort and highlighting concerns like reckless campfires, vegetation clearance, and the need for ongoing awareness . We’re proud of our progress and invite the community to join us in protecting Taloja Hill’s ecosystem
6th January: 5th Butterfly garden at Kalamboli HQ
We’re excited to share the successful completion of our 5th Butterfly Garden at the Navi Mumbai Police Headquarters under the Butterfly Patrol Project! This marks a significant achievement in our journey to establish a network of vibrant habitats for these stunning creatures throughout Navi Mumbai!
10th January: 6th Butterfly garden at Anti-human Trafficking Unit
We are delighted to announce the completion of the Butterfly Garden under the Butterfly Patrol Project at the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit Police Station! Featuring 295 plant saplings, this space is ready to welcome nature's delicate pollinators. A special thanks to the ACP and the dedicated police staff for their support and for inaugurating the garden by planting the first sapling, setting the stage for a greener and more beautiful tomorrow.
11th January: Fire Awareness Session at Taloja Hill Forest
We organized a Fire Awareness and Prevention Training at Taloja Hill Forest in collaboration with the Fire Brigade Department. Six experts from the fire brigade provided valuable insights and practical demonstrations on using fire beaters and wet gunny bags to prevent and manage fires. Our dedicated volunteers and caretakers actively participated, gaining essential knowledge to protect the forest. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the fire brigade team and our volunteers for making this session a success!
11th January: 7th Butterfly garden at Taloja Police Station
We are thrilled to announce the completion of the Butterfly Garden under the Butterfly Patrol Project at Taloja Police Station! With 287 plant saplings enriching this space, we’ve taken another step towards supporting biodiversity and creating habitats for our winged friends. A special thanks to the Taloja police staff for their enthusiastic participation, planting the first sapling to mark this meaningful inauguration.
13th January: 8th Butterfly garden at Taloja Police Station
We’re delighted to share the completion of the 8th Butterfly Garden under the Butterfly Patrol Project! This unique, portable green haven features approximately 276 vibrant potted plant saplings, each thoughtfully labeled to create a living library of butterfly-friendly flora. A heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to bringing this innovative garden to life.
24th January: 9th Butterfly garden at NRI EMC Police Station
We’re thrilled to announce the completion of the 9th butterfly garden under the Butterfly Patrol project at NRI Coastal Police Station, Seawoods, on 24th January! Blessed with abundant sunlight, this vibrant garden provides the perfect habitat to attract and support a thriving butterfly population. As part of this initiative, 319 saplings were planted to enhance biodiversity and create a sustainable ecosystem.
25th January: 10th Butterfly garden at Nerul Police Station
We’re excited to share the completion of the 10th Butterfly Garden under the Butterfly Patrol Project at Nerul Police Station. This marks a proud moment as we successfully establish another vibrant green space dedicated to biodiversity and community engagement.
The garden was inaugurated with great enthusiasm by Station Incharge SI Brahmanand Naikwadi, who planted the first sapling, symbolizing hope and a brighter future for our pollinators. As part of this initiative, 277 saplings were planted to enrich the ecosystem and support butterfly conservation.
27th January: Inauguration of Butterfly Garden at Commissioner of Police Office, Belapur
The Butterfly Garden at the Police Commissioner’s Office, Belapur, was inaugurated on 27th January 2025 by Mr. Milind Bharambe, Commissioner of Police, Navi Mumbai. The event was graced by the presence of Mr. Sanjay Kumar Patil, Deputy Commissioner of Police; Mr. Sanjay Yenpure, Joint Commissioner of Police; and Dr. V. Shubhalaxmi, Founder and Managing Trustee of iNaturewatch Foundation. This initiative aims to enrich the green spaces within the police station premises while fostering a thriving butterfly population in the urban environment.
17 - 21 March: Butterfly Awareness Sessions at Police Stations
As part of Butterfly Patrol, we conducted impactful awareness sessions at all police stations that are part of the project. Mr. Isaac Kehimkar, India’s Butterfly Man, told police personnel about the ecological importance of butterflies and how to sustain these thriving gardens.
Session Locations & Participation: 17 March: Kalamboli Police Station & Navi Mumbai HQ: 69 participants 18 March: Panvel Butterfly Gardens: 35 participants 19 March: Nerul & NRI Police Stations: 28 participants
20 March: Taloja & Kharghar Police Stations: 17 participants 21 March: CP Office & Anti-Human Trafficking Unit: 18 participants
27th April 2025: Bird walk at Taloja Hill Forest
We conducted a bird walk at Taloja Hill Forest with 14 participants. Together, they spotted 30 species of birds.We are thankful to all the participants for joining and making the event a success!
May 2025
4th May 2025: Trailblazer Volunteer Activity
We conducted a volunteer activity for Trailblazer at Taloja Hills, Kharghar. Three volunteers participated and contributed to pathway development using coconut edging.
We are thankful to all the volunteers for their efforts in making this activity a success!
9th May: Clean up drive activity at Taloja Hill Forest, Kharghar
We conducted a cleanup drive at Taloja Hill Forest for S.I.E.S. College students. A total of 84 participants took part in the event and collected 24 kg of non-biodegradable waste from the site. We are thankful to all the volunteers for their contribution in making this event successful!
17th May: Coconut Mulching Activity at Taloja Hill Forest
We conducted a coconut mulching activity at Taloja Hill Forest with 94 enthusiastic students from SIES College. Volunteers used coconut chips to mulch plant bases, promoting moisture retention and soil health. This sustainable effort supports the growth of a greener forest. We thank all the students for their spirited participation!
19th May: Volunteer Cleanup and Mulching Drive at Taloja Hill Forest
- We conducted a volunteer activity at Taloja Hill Forest with 77 students from SIES College, Nerul. The students collected 10 kg of waste and applied coconut mulch around plant bases to support soil health. Their efforts contributed to both cleanliness and sustainability at the site. We thank all the volunteers for their active participation!
22th May: Green Club Explores the Lake View Trail at Taloja Hills
We hosted 15 enthusiastic students from VESCOA’s Green Club on a guided walk along the newly developed Lake View Trail at Taloja Hills. The students explored native flora and fauna, and learned about ongoing habitat restoration techniques. This hands-on experience highlighted the link between trail development and biodiversity. We thank the group for their curiosity and commitment to conservation!
24th May: Corporate Volunteering Activity with Worley India at Taloja Hill Forest
We conducted a volunteer activity at Taloja Hill Forest with 17 volunteers from Worley India Services Limited. The team participated in coconut edging and prepared 40 sapling bags—20 of wild banana and 20 of Bahava. Their efforts contributed to our ongoing habitat restoration work. We thank all volunteers for their valuable support!
25th May: Volunteer Support for Pathway Development at Taloja Hill Forest
We conducted a pathway development volunteer activity at Taloja Hill Forest with the support of four dedicated volunteers. As part of the effort, coconuts were used to edge and define the trail, enhancing both function and aesthetics. We truly appreciate the volunteers' time and commitment. Their contribution supports the growth of a more accessible and eco-friendly forest space!
28th May: Pit Digging and Invasive Species Removal at Taloja Hill Forest
We conducted a volunteer activity at Taloja Hill Forest, Kharghar, with 15 enthusiastic students from SIES College. The team dug 26 plantation pits and assisted in removing invasive plant species from the site. Their dedication supported our habitat restoration efforts. We thank all the volunteers for making the event a success!
June 2025
20th June 2025 – Trail and Green Barrier Work at Taloja Hill Forest
80 students from SIES College, Nerul, contributed to forest restoration at Taloja Hill Forest by planting Fever Nut (Caesalpinia bonduc) seeds along the boundary and collecting stones to reinforce trails. Their collective effort supports habitat protection and improved trail access.
21st June 2025 – Seed Dibbling and Visitor Survey at Taloja Hill Forest
25 students from SIES College, Nerul, joined our dual effort of seed dibbling and visitor feedback collection at Taloja Hill Forest. While Fever Nut (Caesalpinia bonduc) seeds were sown to strengthen the forest boundary, 30 visitors shared valuable insights through a survey. These combined efforts support both ecological restoration and community engagement.
22nd June 2025 – Monsoon Flora Walk at Taloja Hills
25 students from SIES College, Nerul, joined our dual effort of seed dibbling and visitor feedback collection at Taloja Hill Forest. While Fever Nut (Caesalpinia bonduc) seeds were sown to strengthen the forest boundary, 30 visitors shared valuable insights through a survey. These combined efforts support both ecological restoration and community engagement.
23rd June 2025 – Invasive Species Removal & Check Dam Management at Taloja Hills
As part of our restoration efforts, 51 students from SIES College joined us at Taloja Hills to remove around 1,000 invasive saplings and clear silt from the site’s check dam. Their efforts will help restore native habitats and improve rainwater retention, supporting long-term conservation goals.
24th June 2025 – Conservation Action at Taloja Hill Forest
In collaboration with SIES College, 58 student volunteers joined us for invasive species removal and check dam maintenance at Taloja Hill Forest. Over 2,000 invasive saplings were successfully removed. The check dam at the site had accumulated nearly 12 tonnes of soil, and the students assisted in its maintenance to help improve water flow and support habitat restoration
25th June 2025: Sapling Transport
On 25th June, 50 student volunteers helped transport 1,100 saplings from the base of the hill to the nursery. We are thankful to all the volunteers for their support and dedication.
26th June 2025: Plantation drive activity
On 26th June, we conducted a plantation drive in which 54 students actively participated. Together, they planted a total of 90 saplings at the site. We are thankful to all the volunteers for their valuable contribution and support in making this activity successful
27th June 2025: Plantation Drive Activity
We conducted a plantation drive on 27th June 2025 with enthusiastic participation from 48 students of SIES College. The students actively contributed to the greening efforts by planting saplings at the site. We are grateful for their energy and dedication toward the cause of environmental restoration.
28th June 2025: Plantation Drive Activity
On 28th June 2025, we organized another plantation drive with students from SIES College. A total of 77 students took part in the activity — 54 in the morning and 23 in the afternoon session. Together, they helped in planting saplings and strengthening our efforts toward ecological conservation. We sincerely thank all the volunteers for their continued support and commitment.
29th June 2025 – Birthday Celebration in Nature at Taloja Hill Forest
A special birthday event was celebrated amidst nature with 17 adults and 7 children at Taloja Hill Forest. Participants enjoyed a serene nature trail followed by a plantation activity, making the day both joyful and eco-friendly.
July 2025
5th, 9th & 10th July – Stone Collection Activity at Taloja Hill Forest
We conducted a Stone Collection activity on 5th, 9th, 10th and 12th July at Taloja Hill Forest with students from SIES College, Nerul. On the first day, 54 students participated, followed by 64 students on the second day, 65 students on the third day, and 46 students on the 4th day. The collected stones will be used for the stone edging activity. We are thankful to all the volunteers for their valuable support in this initiative.
July Invasive Species Removal Drives at Taloja Hill Forest
Throughout July, we carried out a series of Invasive Species Removal activities at Taloja Hill Forest in collaboration with students from SIES College, Nerul. Across multiple drives held between July 16 and July 31, a total of over 200 student volunteers participated and collectively removed more than 8,000 invasive saplings from the site.
Individual sessions saw strong participation, with groups removing between 200 and 1,220 saplings per event while also supporting restoration tasks such as stone collection for future contouring and pathway strengthening.
August 2025
3rd August: Herpetofauna Walk at Taloja Hill Forest
On August 3, we conducted a Herpetofauna Walk at Taloja Hill Forest with 11 enthusiastic participants. The group explored the evening trail and observed frogs, skinks, geckos, and lizards while learning about their lifecycles, behaviours, adaptations, and habitats. The walk offered a meaningful glimpse into these often-overlooked species and highlighted their importance within the forest ecosystem.
5th, 9th & 10th July – Stone Collection Activity at Taloja Hill Forest
On August 5, iNaturewatch Foundation launched the Nurture the Nature initiative by ICICI Prudential Life, in partnership with Woot Events. The programme features classroom sessions on sustainable living across 10 schools each in Mumbai and Chennai.
The first sessions were held at Green Lawns School, Breach Candy and Worli, engaging nearly 300 students. Led by our in-house naturalist, Mr. Gaurav Soman, the sessions introduced key concepts of sustainability and included a reflective questionnaire activity.
The students’ curiosity, thoughtful questions, and existing awareness of environmental issues made the launch especially encouraging. We look forward to bringing these conversations to classrooms across the country and inspiring young minds to nurture nature.
13th August: Plantation Drive at Turbhe MIDC Police Station
On August 13, we organised a plantation drive at Turbhe MIDC Police Station with seven enthusiastic students from SIES College, Nerul. The volunteers planted 80 saplings at the site, contributing to the enhancement of its green cover. We’re grateful for their support and dedication in making the activity a success.
21st & 22nd August: Nurture the Nature Classroom Sessions in Mumbai
On August 21 and 22, iNaturewatch Foundation, in collaboration with ICICI Prudential Life and Woot Events, conducted sessions of the Nurture the Nature initiative at Children’s Academy, Kandivali, and Lady Ginger School, Grant Road. Led by Ms. Priti Choghale, the sessions engaged around 300 secondary students, strengthening their understanding of sustainability and environmental stewardship. The students showed remarkable curiosity and existing awareness, making the sessions both impactful and inspiring.
September 2025
2nd-4th September: Nurture the Nature Classroom Sessions in Chennai
Under the Nurture the Nature initiative, iNaturewatch Foundation, in collaboration with ICICI Prudential Life and Woot Events, conducted four sustainability education sessions across Chennai. Led by Mr. Kumaresan Chandrabose, the sessions reached over 350 students in each school and were held on the following dates:
• September 2 – The Schram Academy, Ayanambakkam
• September 3 – Velammal Bodhi Campus, Kolapakkam
• September 4 – Shree Niketan Patasala, West Tambaram
• September 4 – Shree Niketan Patasala, East Tambaram
The sessions encouraged students to understand sustainability in everyday life and inspired them to adopt small, meaningful actions for a greener future.
6th September: Gardening for Butterflies Webinar
On September 6, we hosted a special Gardening for Butterflies webinar with Mr. Isaac Kehimkar as part of Big Butterfly Month. The session engaged 52 participants and explored butterfly life cycles, habitats, and the importance of nectar and host plants in creating supportive butterfly gardens.
7th September: Butterfly Walk at Taloja Hill Forest
On September 7, we conducted a Butterfly Walk at Taloja Hill Forest with 12 enthusiastic participants. The group explored the trail and observed insects, butterflies, and birds while learning about their lifecycles, behaviours, adaptations, and habitats.
A total of seven butterfly species were recorded: Common Grass Yellow, Lemon Emigrant, Common Silverline, Plain Tiger (caterpillar), Yellow Orange Tip, Tawny Coaster, and Crimson Rose.
The walk offered a meaningful glimpse into the forest’s rich yet often overlooked biodiversity.
11th September:Nature Trail with Don Bosco School at Taloja Hill
On September 11, we conducted a Nature Trail at Taloja Hill, Kharghar, with 26 students and two teachers from Don Bosco School. The group learned about habitats, native plants, and the role of insects within the food chain, observing biodiversity firsthand along the trail. The walk sparked curiosity and meaningful questions, helping students build a deeper connection with nature and an understanding of the importance of environmental protection.
15th September:Butterfly Walk at Kehimkar’s Butterfly Garden, Karjat
On September 15, we hosted a Butterfly Walk at Kehimkar’s Butterfly Garden in Karjat, guided by Mr. Isaac Kehimkar, the Butterfly Man of India. Eight participants explored butterfly habitats, learned about life cycles, and deepened their understanding of these remarkable insects. As a special takeaway, each participant received a nectar-plant sapling to begin their own butterfly-friendly garden at home.
20th September: Cleanup and Ring De-Weeding Activity at SGNP, Mulund
On September 20, 31 employees from DCB Bank participated in a Cleanup Drive and Ring De-Weeding Activity at Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Mulund. The group supported young plant growth through careful de-weeding and collected 10 kg of non-biodegradable waste from the site. Their commitment contributed meaningfully to maintaining the park’s biodiversity and promoting a cleaner, healthier environment.
21st September: Butterfly Walk at Sanjay Gandhi National Park
On September 21, 2025, we hosted a Butterfly Walk at Sanjay Gandhi National Park with 24 enthusiastic participants. Over a two-hour trail, the group observed 26 butterfly species while learning about larval host plants, nectar plants, and other insects and flora along the route. A surprise sighting of a herd of spotted deer added a touch of magic to the walk. We’re grateful to everyone who joined us in celebrating Big Butterfly Month and the beauty of urban biodiversity.
27th September 2025: Webinar on Butterfly Business by Dr. V. Shubhalaxmi
On 27th September, we hosted an insightful webinar on “Butterfly Business” with Dr. V. Shubhalaxmi. A total of 31 participants joined us to explore the fascinating world of butterflies and discover the unique business opportunities connected with them. Thank you to everyone who participated and made the session engaging and impactful!
11th October 2025: De-weeding Activity at Ambivli Biodiversity Park
On 11th October 2025, a de-weeding activity was conducted at Ambivli Biodiversity Park with the participation of 78 enthusiastic volunteers from DCB Bank. The volunteers carried out de-weeding in both the Butterfly Garden and Bee Garden, helping to maintain these habitats for pollinators. A heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers for their active participation and support in making the event a great success.
17th October 2025: Plantation drive at Sanpada Police Station
A compensatory plantation drive was conducted at Sanpada Police Station with the support of 19 enthusiastic volunteers from DCB Bank. A total of 60 butterfly-attracting saplings were planted, enriching the existing garden and creating a vibrant haven for pollinators. The volunteers’ active participation and teamwork contributed greatly to enhancing urban biodiversity and greening the city.
16th November 2025: Celebrating Dr. Salim Ali with a Bird Walk at Taloja Hills
To celebrate Dr. Salim Ali’s birth anniversary, a free bird walk was held on 16 November 2025 at Taloja Hills. Seventeen participants joined bird expert Dr. Ketki Marthak along the Temple Trail, exploring grasslands, forest patches, and the pond ecosystem. A total of 24 bird species were recorded, including Open-billed Stork, Purple Heron, Pond Heron, Scaly-breasted Munia, Shikra, Wire-tailed Swallow, Asian Paradise Flycatcher, and more. Participants also learned to distinguish between swifts, swallows, and martins, gaining a deeper understanding of habitat-based bird diversity.
November 2025- MARCH 2026
22nd November: Volunteering Activity at Vashi and Sanpada Police Stations
On 22nd November 2025, we organized a Volunteering Activity at Vashi Police Station and Sanpada Police Station. A team of 61 enthusiastic volunteers from DCB Bank joined us in enhancing the Butterfly Gardens by installing plant signages, fencing the plants, and creating brick lining to beautify and protect the garden spaces. Their collective effort added structure, care, and vibrancy to the habitats, supporting long-term butterfly conservation.
8 Dec 2025: Guided Tree Walk at Taloja Hills
A Trees of Kharghar guided walk was conducted at Taloja Hills, led by expert Dr. Shreya Bhanap. The walk was attended by 11 nature enthusiasts, who explored the diverse vegetation along the trail, including grassland species, rocky hill flora, and forest patches along the slopes.
Participants learned to identify native and exotic tree species, understand their ecological roles, seasonal changes, and their importance in supporting local wildlife. Insights were also shared on plant adaptations, medicinal uses, and key identification features observed in natural settings.
The session offered an engaging learning experience, highlighting the role of trees as the foundation of local ecosystems and contributors to regional biodiversity.
9 Dec 2025: Nature Trails for NMIMS Architecture Students
Nature trails were conducted for 50 students of the 4th Year Bachelor of Architecture – Ecological Design programme at NMIMS. The trails were designed to strengthen students’ understanding of ecological fundamentals, interconnected natural systems, and their relevance in designing environmentally sensitive outdoor and contoured landscapes.
The objective was to encourage students to view sites within larger regional ecosystems, understand the impact of human interventions, and explore how thoughtful design can help mitigate ecological damage. To support this learning, two contrasting ecosystems in Navi Mumbai were selected.
During the field visit:
Group 1 explored the mangrove ecosystem at Vashi Mini Sea Shore under the guidance of Mr. Adesh Shivkar.
Group 2 studied Taloja Hills, covering deciduous forests, grasslands, quarry areas, slope restoration work, check dams, and trail systems, guided by Mr. Suraj Das.
The experience provided students with first-hand insight into how diverse ecosystems function and how design interventions can either support or disrupt ecological balance.
14 Dec 2025 | Birdwatching Trail at Taloja Hill Forest, Kharghar
A guided birdwatching trail was conducted at Taloja Hill Forest, Kharghar, led by expert Mr. Nikhil Bhosale. The morning walk was attended by 10 enthusiastic participants, during which 23 bird species were recorded.
Participants learned to identify bird species, understand trail ethics, and observe avian behaviour in natural habitats. The session was highly interactive and informative, with several participants appreciating the practical tips and expert guidance shared during the trail.
Key sightings included Black Drongo, Purple Sunbird, and Purple-rumped Sunbird, along with birds of prey such as the Black-winged Kite, White-eyed Buzzard, and Black Kite. These sightings offered valuable insights into the region’s avian diversity.
The trail concluded as a rewarding learning experience, enhancing participants’ understanding of bird ecology and responsible nature observation.
24 Dec 2025: Inauguration of Butterfly Garden at Sanpada Police Station
The Butterfly Garden at Sanpada Police Station was inaugurated under Project Butterfly Express, funded by DCB Bank. Dr. V. Shubhalakshmi, Founder and Managing Trustee, introduced the project’s vision and ecological significance, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony by Shri Adinath Budhvant, ACP.
During the garden walk, a Grass Yellow butterfly laying eggs on a Peacock Flower plant was observed, indicating successful habitat creation. The event was attended by representatives from DCB Bank and the Police Department, who appreciated the conservation efforts of iNaturewatch Foundation.
As part of Phase One, a Field Guide featuring 60 butterfly species was developed, with a copy placed at the police station to support awareness and biodiversity monitoring. The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Project Officer Dipika Shenai.
20 January to 22 January 2026
Student Volunteering on School Campuses
Student volunteering activities were conducted across multiple school campuses as part of the Butterfly Campus Project.
Schools covered:
▪Vishwajyot School▪Greenfingers School▪Adya Krantiveer Vasudev Balvant Phadke School, Panvel▪Nagraj Sheth School
On 20 January, 25 student volunteers actively supported green initiatives at Vishwajyot School, while 27 student volunteersparticipated in strengthening green initiatives at Greenfingers School.
On the same day, 20 student volunteers from SIES College participated in Butterfly Garden activities at Adya Krantiveer Vasudev Balvant Phadke School, Panvel.
At Nagraj Sheth School, 40 student volunteers participated in volunteering activities conducted on 20 and 22 January.
Across all campuses, students carried out de-weeding, plantation activities, signage installation, butterfly feeder installation, student and staff perception surveys, plant counts, and biodiversity surveys.
Butterfly Garden Inaugurations – Project Butterfly Campus
Adya Krantiveer Vasudeo Balwant Phadake Vidyalaya, New Panvel | 4 Feb
A butterfly garden was inaugurated, followed by a garden tour for 25 students and an awareness session for 392 students from Classes 4–7 on butterfly life cycles and biodiversity conservation.
• DAV Public School | 4 Feb
A butterfly garden was inaugurated with a guided garden tour for 32 students and an interactive butterfly awareness session attended by 90 students.
• Greenfingers Global School | 11 Feb
The butterfly garden was inaugurated by Principal Ms. Anju Vedi. Dr. Shubhalaxmi conducted a garden tour for 40 students and an awareness talk attended by 150 students, encouraging experiential environmental learning.
Volunteer Engagement at Butterfly Gardens
Vashi and Vashi APMC Police Station | 10 Feb
13 volunteers from DCB Bank supported garden maintenance activities including soil loosening, mulching, plantation review, and staff perception surveys.
• Sanpada Police Station | 11 Feb
13 volunteers participated in garden upkeep through deweeding, soil loosening, mulching, plantation review, and staff perception surveys.
• Panvel ACP Police Station and Panvel City Police Station | 11 Feb
9 volunteers supported soil loosening, deweeding, plantation review, and a staff perception survey.
21st March: International Day of Forests – Taloja Hill Forest
On 21st March, International Day of Forests was observed at Taloja Hill Forest through a focused restoration activity. Two volunteers worked towards removing invasive American Mint, a species that disrupts native biodiversity. Though small in scale, such efforts play a crucial role in restoring natural ecosystems and creating space for native plant species to thrive.
21st March : International Day of Forests – Kehimker Butterfly Garden, Karjat
The day was marked with a plantation drive at KehimkerButterfly Garden, Karjat. With the support of one volunteer and local workers, several saplings—including nectar and host plants—were planted to support butterfly habitats. This initiative marks the beginning of ongoing efforts to restore and develop the garden into a thriving ecosystem.
28 March 2026: Volunteering at Turbhe Police Station
At Turbhe Police Station, 17 volunteers from DCB Bank supported garden maintenance activities.
Activities included installation of benches, setting up stakes and trellises, mulching, and overall upkeep of the butterfly garden.
28 March: Volunteering at Rabale MIDC Police Station
At Rabale MIDC Police Station, 34 volunteers from DCB Bank participated in garden maintenance.
Activities included deweeding, soil addition, mulching, installation of trellises and stakes, and setting up benches… strengthening both the garden and the collective commitment to sustainability.
APRIL 2026- JULY 2026
22 April | Earth Day Celebrations
On Earth Day, a successful plantation drive was held at the CP Office, CBD Belapur, bringing together 13 students from Amity International School, Belapur, along with dedicated volunteers — 19 participants in all.
Mr. Isaac Kehimkar shared valuable insights on biodiversity and the importance of protecting our natural ecosystems. Together, participants planted 275 saplings, making a tangible contribution towards a greener urban landscape.
22 April | Mulching Activity at Taloja Hills
Also on Earth Day, 5 dedicated volunteers carried out a mulching activity at Taloja Hills, mulching 15 plants to improve soil health and support plant growth. Mulching conserves moisture, reduces weed growth, and protects plants from temperature extremes — a simple yet powerful act of ecosystem care
28 April | Teacher Training Workshop — Project Butterfly Campus
A full-day Teacher Training Workshop brought together 25 teachers from 10 schools, facilitated by Dr. V. Shubhalaxmi, Mrs. Sushila Reddy, Ms. Namrah Shaikh, and Ms. Dipika Shenai. Teachers explored the Beyond Butterflies Teacher's Guide through group discussions, hands-on activity demonstrations, and the "Becoming the Butterfly" icebreaker — reflecting on their own growth as Nurturers, Scholars, Performers, Strategists, and Innovators.
Each teacher received a Project Butterfly Kit to support field-based learning. Starting June, participating schools will implement one garden activity per month from the guide's 18 structured activities.
5th June, 2026, Clean-up Drive at Taloja Hill
On 5th June, 23 students and 2 teachers from Vivekanand College joined for a clean-up drive at Taloja Hill Forest. Together, the enthusiastic team collected 15 kg of waste, including plastic and glass, helping to make the forest cleaner and safer for wildlife and visitors alike. Every piece of litter removed is a step towards restoring the natural beauty and ecological health of this important green space. Your dedication and hard work are an inspiring example of how collective action can create a positive environmental impact.
7th June, 2026, Flamingo Watch & Walk — Nerul Wetlands
Thirty-nine participants, including 33 members from Tata Consulting Engineers, joined us at the Flamingo Bird Watch Point, Nerul. Though tide timing kept the large flamingo flocks away, nature delivered its own reward...26 bird species were recorded across the wetlands. Group leaders Dr. Ketki Marthak and Mr. Suraj Das turned the initial disappointment into curiosity, guiding participants to discover lesser-known wetland species. Observations were uploaded to iNaturalist, making it a genuine citizen science outing. And right at the end, a few juvenile flamingos appeared ; a perfect, patient finale.
14th June, 2026, Stream Trail Maintenance & Clean-Up — Taloja Hill
On 14th June, nine dedicated volunteers gathered at Taloja Hill for a Stream Trail Maintenance and Clean-Up Drive. Together they cleared waste from the nature trail and worked to improve conditions for both wildlife and visitors. Small acts of collective care like this make a lasting difference to local biodiversity.