Jhansi/Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya launched the state’s Vriksharopan Mahayagya-2026 in Jhansi, calling upon citizens to actively participate in the ambitious drive to plant 35 crore saplings across the state. Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, the initiative aims to promote environmental conservation while strengthening rural livelihoods and sustainable development.
Addressing the gathering, Maurya said the plantation campaign is not merely about increasing green cover but about securing a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable future for coming generations. He urged every citizen to contribute to the movement by planting and nurturing trees, making it a true people’s campaign.
The Deputy Chief Minister also highlighted the state government’s efforts to strengthen the rural economy, empower women and improve village infrastructure through various welfare initiatives. He said self-help groups (SHGs) have become a powerful force for transforming rural women’s lives and assured continued financial and technical support from the government.
During the programme, Maurya distributed financial assistance to self-help groups across Jhansi district, including those in Baragaon block. Under the Community Investment Fund (CIF), 110 self-help groups received demonstration cheques worth ₹1.65 crore, with each group sanctioned ₹1.50 lakh. Beneficiaries included Jhalkaribai Self-Help Group from Bhojla village and Jai Ratangarhwali Self-Help Group from Behata village.
Under the Revolving Fund Scheme, 277 self-help groups were provided demonstration cheques totalling ₹83.10 lakh, with each group receiving ₹30,000. Beneficiary groups included Jai Asho Mata Self-Help Group from Joribujurg and Radha Self-Help Group from Dimrauni village.
In a step towards digital empowerment, thermal printers were distributed to women associated with self-help groups working as Vidyut Sakhis, enabling them to carry out digital service delivery more efficiently.
Maurya also handed over keys to beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and the Chief Minister Housing Scheme, enabling several families to move into their new homes. Beneficiaries under the Ayushman Bharat scheme received health cards, reinforcing the government’s commitment to providing quality healthcare coverage to economically weaker sections.
The programme also recognised frontline workers for their outstanding contributions. Anganwadi workers were honoured for excellence in child development and nutrition, while village employment assistants received appreciation certificates for their role in rural development. Gram Pradhans who made significant contributions to environmental conservation and the distribution of moringa saplings were also felicitated.
Maurya said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Uttar Pradesh is advancing both development and environmental conservation simultaneously. He reiterated the government’s commitment to the welfare of villages, farmers, women and youth, adding that empowering self-help groups remains central to the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat and a Developed Uttar Pradesh.
Concluding his address, the Deputy Chief Minister appealed to people across the state to join the historic plantation drive and transform the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative into a mass movement for environmental protection.
The event was attended by public representatives, administrative officials, elected local leaders, and a large number of women associated with self-help groups.
