In an unprecedented display of collective environmental stewardship, over one crore individuals across Uttar Pradesh participated in a monumental tree plantation drive on Wednesday, planting a staggering 37 crore saplings in a single day. This ambitious “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (One Tree for Mother) campaign, spearheaded by the state government, aims to significantly expand the green cover, combat climate change, and enhance environmental resilience in India’s most populous state. The initiative showcases a powerful blend of governmental resolve and widespread public engagement, setting a new benchmark for eco-friendly urban and rural development.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched the campaign in Ayodhya, personally planting indigenous species like peepal, banyan, and neem trees, while urging citizens to “Plant a tree to nurture the present and save the future.” He underscored the vital role of trees in mitigating carbon emissions, improving air quality, and preventing respiratory diseases, framing the act of planting a tree as a profound gesture of gratitude towards both biological mothers and Mother Earth herself. This deeply emotional and cultural appeal resonated across the state, transforming a massive logistical undertaking into a heartfelt community mission.
The colossal plantation effort spanned diverse landscapes, including roadsides, rail tracks, vast forest lands, and institutional premises. A strategic mix of 16 fruit-bearing and native tree varieties was chosen to maximise ecological benefits and local relevance. By 6 p.m. on Wednesday, all 75 districts of Uttar Pradesh had collectively surpassed the ambitious 37-crore target, a testament to meticulous planning and enthusiastic participation. This scale of mobilisation highlights the potential for large-scale, citizen-led environmental action to foster eco-friendly and sustainable urban and rural environments.
The drive witnessed an extraordinary cross-section of society joining hands, from millions of students and farmers to thousands of lawmakers, civil servants, lawyers, and voluntary organisations. Even young children, symbolising the future generations for whom these trees are planted, eagerly contributed. This inclusive participation underscores the gender-neutral and equitable access to environmental initiatives, ensuring that every citizen can play a role in building greener, healthier cities and communities.
Over the past eight years, Uttar Pradesh has cumulatively planted more than 204 crore saplings, with an impressive estimated survival rate of 75 per cent, according to government data. This consistent effort has transformed nearly five lakh acres into thriving green spaces, significantly boosting the state’s overall forest and tree cover. The Chief Minister optimistically noted this shift, stating, “We have turned the heatwave into a green wave,” signifying the tangible impact on local climate conditions and public well-being.
Further validating these achievements, the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023 indicates that Uttar Pradesh now boasts 9.96 per cent green cover of its total geographical area, marking the second-highest growth among Indian states. The report detailed an increase in forest cover to 15,045.80 sq km (6.24%) from 14,927.37 sq km (6.20%) in 2021, and a significant rise in tree cover to 8,950.92 sq km (3.72%) from 8,510.16 sq km (3.53%) in the same period. While long-term sapling survival rates remain a consistent challenge in mass plantation drives, Uttar Pradesh’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative powerfully demonstrates the potential for collective action to drive significant environmental regeneration and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future for all.
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