Daijiworld Media Network - Khammam

Khammam, Apr 12: Padma Shri awardee and noted environmentalist Daripalli Ramaiah, fondly known as ‘Vanajeevi’ or ‘Chettu (Tree) Ramaiah’, passed away on Saturday at his residence in Reddipalli village of Khammam district, Telangana. He was 87.

Family sources said Ramaiah died of a heart attack. Known for his tireless afforestation efforts, Ramaiah had planted over one crore saplings across Telangana over the past several decades, earning him national recognition, including the Padma Shri award in 2017.

Condoling his death, Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy described Ramaiah’s demise as an “irreparable loss” to society. “He strongly believed that the survival of mankind is impossible without nature,” the CM said in a statement, praising Ramaiah for inspiring generations through his selfless dedication to the environment.

The Chief Minister offered heartfelt condolences to Ramaiah’s family, noting how his lone initiative evolved into a widespread green movement.