Lucknow: In a major push towards environmental conservation, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has set an ambitious target of planting over 35 crore saplings in a single day in 2026, aiming to surpass previous records and strengthen the state’s green cover.
Reviewing preparations for the Mega Plantation Drive–2026, the Chief Minister said the initiative would be transformed into a people’s movement, building on the success of past campaigns driven by public participation.
‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ Campaign to Lead the Drive
Under the flagship “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, plantation will be made mandatory across anganwadi centres and educational institutions. Each anganwadi centre will plant at least five saplings of moringa (drumstick), while students in schools and colleges will be encouraged to plant at least one tree each.
Special emphasis will also be placed on large-scale plantation along key infrastructure corridors, including the Ganga Expressway, as well as along riverbanks, highways, and public lands.
Strong Growth in Plantation Efforts
Officials highlighted that Uttar Pradesh has made significant progress in afforestation over the past decade. Between 2009 and 2016, about 514.8 million saplings were planted, while the number surged to over 2.42 billion between 2017 and 2025.
This has resulted in a substantial increase in forest and tree cover, with an expansion of approximately 338,000 acres and total green cover reaching nearly 9.96 percent. The state has also outperformed the national average in carbon stock growth, recording a 2.46 percent increase.
Long-Term Green Vision
The state government has set clear environmental targets—15 percent green cover by 2030 and 20 percent by 2047—as part of a long-term sustainability roadmap.
To ensure success, the Chief Minister stressed the need for scientific planning, micro-level execution, and result-oriented implementation. Departments have been directed to prepare detailed action plans by May 30.
Focus on Quality and Survival of Plants
Highlighting that plantation alone is not enough, the Chief Minister emphasised ensuring the survival of saplings. “Protection and sustained growth of planted trees must be the top priority,” he said.
The state is leveraging digital tools such as the Haritima App, GIS mapping, QR code-based tracking, and Plantation Monitoring Systems to oversee progress. A 2025 survey recorded an 80 percent survival rate for saplings planted by the forest department.
To support the campaign, over 1,935 government nurseries are operational, ensuring the availability of more than 500 million quality saplings. An additional 34 nurseries have also been set up, with support from horticulture, sericulture, and private sectors.
Cultural and Ecological Integration
The Chief Minister also called for dedicating forests and green spaces in the names of martyrs and freedom fighters. Special plantation drives will be carried out in Ayodhya, focusing on species mentioned in the Ramayana era.
Ramsar Recognition for Shekha Lake
During the meeting, the state received a certificate recognising Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary as a Ramsar site, marking another milestone in conservation efforts. The wetland, spread over 40.309 hectares, is now among the 12 Ramsar sites in Uttar Pradesh, collectively covering nearly 38,992 hectares.
Towards a Greener Future
With a combination of mass participation, technology-driven monitoring, and ecological awareness, Uttar Pradesh is positioning itself at the forefront of India’s green initiatives. The proposed record-breaking plantation drive reflects a broader commitment to sustainable development and climate resilience.
