Gorakhpur : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, in a major green push, launched the state’s mega tree plantation drive ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0’ in Gorakhpur. Planting saplings on the banks of Chilua Tal at the fertilizer plant premises, the CM officially inaugurated the ‘Pavitra Dhara Van’ (Sacred Stream Forest), reaffirming the government’s commitment to environmental conservation and climate resilience.
The initiative, which the CM described as “not just a plantation drive, but a mission to preserve the present and secure the future,” saw the distribution of saplings to farmers and citizens alike. Over 32 crore saplings have reportedly been planted across the state between 7 AM and 4 PM as part of this campaign.
Addressing the gathering, CM Yogi emphasized the emotional and ecological symbolism of the campaign. “Today, every individual has received an opportunity to keep their mother’s memory alive and honour Mother Earth. This is a moment of immense enthusiasm and collective responsibility,” he said.
He also highlighted the global climate crisis, citing recent floods in the US where children went missing due to a sudden deluge. “From extreme rains to severe droughts, the world is facing climate disruptions. This shift is the result of unplanned, unscientific development — a cost humanity is paying,” he added.
The CM credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s climate leadership since 2014, which inspired structured efforts nationwide to combat climate change. He noted that Uttar Pradesh alone has increased its forest cover by 5 lakh hectares and successfully planted 204 crore trees over the past eight years — the highest by any Indian state.
Referring to the era before 2017, CM Yogi said, “Illegal logging by forest and land mafias was rampant. We curbed this menace and followed the PM’s vision to increase greenery.” He also stated that 75% of the 204 crore trees planted are still surviving, contributing significantly to the state’s ecological recovery.
The CM elaborated on various pro-environment schemes launched under PM Modi’s leadership, including the Ujjwala Yojana, which provided free LPG connections to households. “Previously, people used kerosene, coal, and firewood for cooking, which caused pollution. Now, most families use clean, green fuel. Our government also distributed free cylinders during Holi and Diwali,” he said.
The state government has pledged to plant 37 crore saplings in a single day this year. Further, in a major incentive to farmers, the government offers $6 (approximately Rs 500) per tree to those who maintain tree plantations on their farmland for five years. Last year, Rs 32 lakh was distributed to 25,000 farmers. This year, around Rs 42 lakh is expected to reach farmer accounts.
Besides tree plantation, the CM announced plans to revive Chilua Tal, inspired by the rejuvenation of Gorakhpur’s Ramgarh Tal. He added that tree plantations are being conducted along rivers, expressways, service lanes, and near Amrit Sarovars (lakes developed under central schemes).
Water Resources Minister Swatantra Dev Singh praised the CM’s leadership in turning Uttar Pradesh into the second-largest contributor to tree plantation in India with 5 lakh hectares of added green cover. He particularly mentioned the positive transformation in Bundelkhand where improved afforestation has tackled water scarcity.
Minister of State for Environment Dr. Arun Kumar Saxena echoed concerns about climate change, attributing it to declining tree cover. “From heatwaves to floods, it’s all connected. Through ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, we are trying to save humanity itself. Every farmer should plant trees along their field boundaries and protect them,” he urged.
Also present at the event was MP Ravi Kishan Shukla, along with other public representatives and senior officials from the state administration.
The campaign, rich in emotional appeal and ecological vision, is fast becoming a movement in Uttar Pradesh — blending environmental activism with cultural reverence for motherhood and nature.
