Photo: Collected

DHAKA, July 27, 2025 (BSS) – A total of 1,691,423 saplings were sold generating revenue of TK 14,79,09,474 in the National Tree Fair 2025 held in Agargaon, adjacent to Bangladesh China Friendship Conference Centre between June 25 to July 27. 

Among the saplings sold were 337,640 fruit-bearing, 248,274 timber, 114,515 medicinal, 101,149 spice plants, 102,089 cacti, 74,541 orchids, 454,574 ornamental, 37,321 rare or endangered native species, and 222,020 others.

The fair remained open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM with 112 stalls. Of them, 8 government, 8 private, 92 single nurseries, and 18 double nurseries.

Environment, Forest and Climate Change and Water Resources Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan attended the closing ceremony as the chief guest held today at Ban Bhaban in the capital’s Agargaon.

"The Tree Fair is not merely a marketplace for saplings rather a significant initiative for raising environmental awareness. Those who participated in this fair have sent a strong message of love for nature," she said. 

She also announced formation of a “Student Network” comprising award-winning students who participated in the fair. This network will actively engage in wildlife conservation efforts.

To ensure transparency in stall allocation, the adviser mentioned that the current policy is being reviewed, and more accountable and effective measures will be implemented in the days to come. 

She praised participants who introduced endangered and rare plant species, as well as those who showcased exotic plants, noting that such efforts are forging a real connection between people and nature.

Rizwana emphasized prioritizing eco-friendly nurseries in future fairs and discouraging environmentally harmful materials.

She also appreciated the organizers for maintaining cleanliness, creating aesthetic landscaping, and ensuring a family-friendly environment throughout the month-long event.

During the ceremony, the adviser distributed awards and certificates to students who won competitions in plant identification, essay writing, and painting. 

She also handed over prizes to stall owners and individuals recognized for their contributions to tree planting and wildlife conservation.

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Secretary Dr. Farhina Ahmed, Additional Secretary Mohammad Navid Shafiullah; Chief Conservator of Forests, Md. Amir Hossain Chowdhury and Deputy Chief Conservator Rakibul Hasan also attended the event.