52 legislators back Anirudh Reddy’s 10 Lakh Ippa tree mission

Reddy urged the government to discard outdated colonial-era regulations and adopt modern methods to promote Ippa products, which have a rich 5,000-year history and significant health benefits  

Jadcherla MLA Anirudh Reddy’s initiative to promote large-scale plantation of *Ippa* (Mahua) trees across Telangana has received overwhelming support from legislators. In a significant development, as many as 52 MLAs and MLCs combined have extended their endorsement to his proposal, marking a strong collective push towards environmental and socio-economic sustainability.  

In his letter to Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, Anirudh Reddy emphasized the importance of planting 10 lakh Ippa trees under government supervision. He highlighted that these trees are highly resilient to drought conditions, making them particularly suitable for semi-arid regions like Telangana. Beyond ecological benefits such as improving soil fertility, preventing erosion, and enhancing greenery, the initiative also promises economic advantages.  

The MLA pointed out that *Ippa* flowers and seeds have traditionally been used by tribal and rural communities for food, medicine, and livelihood. Rich in nutrients and medicinal properties, they serve as a vital source of income and health support for local populations. By expanding plantation efforts, the campaign aims to strengthen rural economies while contributing to environmental conservation.  

This movement has sparked a new wave of discussion in the Assembly, with legislators and members of the Legislative Council rallying behind the cause. Reviving Tradition, empowering Tribals, and boosting Telangana’s Economy

It may be noted that few days ago Anirudh Reddy spoke on this subject extensively in Assembly. He strongly advocated for the establishment of a dedicated corporation to promote and regulate the production of Ippa Puvvu Sara in Telangana. He emphasized that such a corporation would not only safeguard the cultural heritage of tribal communities but also economically empower Adivasis and Scheduled Tribes by creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.  

He highlighted that exporting Ippa-based products to domestic and international markets could generate substantial revenue for the state while simultaneously offering employment to thousands of tribal families. Reddy urged the government to discard outdated colonial-era regulations and adopt modern methods to promote Ippa products, which have a rich 5,000-year history and significant health benefits.  

The MLA expressed concern over the harmful effects of cheap liquor currently available in the state, contrasting it with the healthier tradition of consuming liquor distilled from Ippa Puvvu. He noted that tribal communities in his constituency once lived long, healthy lives, often surpassing 100 years, due to their reliance on Ippa-based beverages.  

Reddy further suggested diversifying Ippa usage into food products such as ice cream, cakes, laddoos, and biscuits.