Environment and Forest Secretary AHM Rezaul Kabir formally inaugurated the programme as the chief guest while Chief Conservator of Forest AKM Shamsuddin was present as special guest.

A total of 2 lakh saplings of fruit, timber and medicinal trees will be distributed this year at different points of the city, said the BATB officials.

The people can collect saplings from the Krishibid Institute from June 22, from Nandan at Dhanmondi on June 24, from Nandan Mega shop at Gulshan on June 25, from Lavender at Gulshan on June 26, from Family Needs at Uttara on June 27 and from CSD at Cantonment on June 28.

Appreciating the BATB's initiative, AHM Rezaul Kabir said, "The private companies should come forward to strengthen the government's campaign for tree plantation in order to protect the environment for the next generation."

He also said participatory approach of both the public and private organisations is needed to preserve the forest.

As part of its corporate social responsibility, the BATB started its sapling distribution programme in 1980 and since then it has planted and distributed more than 5.50 crore saplings, said Golam Mayeenuddin, deputy managing director of BATB.

Saiful Bahari Mahapar, head of corporate and regulatory affairs, also spoke.

Later, the secretary and chief conservator distributed saplings to several guests.