Review of the Programme: Distribution of Seed Balls to the Students of Microbiology Date: 18th August 2026

Amid the hectic schedule of conducting the Law examinations, I made it a point to steal some time and join this brief but meaningful programme on the distribution of seed balls to the students of Microbiology.

The seed balls were provided by Mr Elugu Suresh Kumar, and the event was coordinated by Dr H. Pallavi and Smt B. Nagajyothirmai, whose efforts ensured the programme was well organised despite its short duration.

Seed balls, also known as seed bombs, are prepared by encasing a mix of native seeds within a protective covering of clay, compost, and soil. The seeds are first blended with nutrient-rich compost, then coated in layers of clay, and finally shaped into small, dry balls. This clay casing shields the seeds from birds, ants, and harsh weather until the onset of rains, at which point it softens and disintegrates, allowing the seeds to germinate naturally in the soil. This simple, low-cost technique enables afforestation even in areas that are otherwise difficult to sow by conventional methods — degraded lands, roadsides, barren patches, and inaccessible terrain — making it a valuable tool for ecological restoration and green cover expansion.

During the programme, I spoke to the students about the significant role seed balls play in the natural dispersal of plant species, and how this method revives traditional, sustainable approaches to regreening the environment. I also recalled the notable contribution of Sir Thomas Munro, who is remembered for planting innumerable tamarind trees across the Ceded Districts — an enduring legacy of environmental stewardship that resonates with the spirit of this initiative.

The programme was deliberately kept brief, lasting only a few minutes, so as not to encroach upon the students' valuable academic time, while still leaving them with a meaningful message on environmental conservation.