Lucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has declared July as the month of green transformation for Uttar Pradesh, announcing the launch of a massive statewide plantation campaign under the theme “One Tree in Mother’s Name.” With a mission to plant more trees in a single day than the state’s population, the campaign marks a significant step toward environmental consciousness and climate resilience.
In a high-level meeting reviewing preparations for Van Mahotsav 2025, CM Yogi launched the official logo of the mega campaign and called upon every citizen, government department, and public representative to actively participate.
“From heatwave to greenwave — that is the direction we are heading in. This campaign is not just about planting trees, it’s about securing the future of our environment and our people,” the Chief Minister said.
A Record-Breaking Green Movement
Between 2017 and 2024, 204.92 crore saplings have been planted across Uttar Pradesh. According to the Forest Survey of India, this has led to a historic increase of 3 lakh acres in green cover across the state.
In this year’s Van Mahotsav, the government aims to plant 35 crore saplings, surpassing the state’s total population. Of these, 12.6 crore will be planted by the Forest Department and 22.4 crore by other government departments.
Green Gold Certificates for Every Newborn
In an emotionally resonant initiative, the Chief Minister announced that every child born during Van Mahotsav will receive a “Green Gold Certificate” along with a tree sapling. The goal: to create a lifelong emotional connection between citizens and the environment.
“Caring for a plant with the same commitment as one does for a child will instill environmental values in every home,” CM Yogi added.
Statewide Participation and Massive Preparations
A total of 52.43 crore saplings are ready in forest, horticulture, silk, and private nurseries. These include industrial, fruit-bearing, shade-giving, ornamental, and fodder plant varieties.
CM Yogi instructed that massive plantation be carried out in:
- Schools covered under Project Alankar
- Medical colleges and district hospitals
- Industries and gaushalas (cow shelters)
- Expressways and government buildings
Special emphasis has been placed on planting medicinal and shade-giving trees such as neem, peepal, and pakar.
Rivers, Lakes, and Expressways to Go Green
The plantation drive will also aid river rejuvenation. Both banks of major rivers will be greened, along with lakes and catchment areas, improving biodiversity and water quality.
Plantation along expressways — Purvanchal, Bundelkhand, Ganga, Agra-Lucknow, and Gorakhpur Link — will help develop scenic and ecological corridors across the state.
Community Engagement: From Children to Farmers
To boost public participation, the government will organize:
- Street plays
- Painting and debate competitions
- Morning awareness rallies
- Photography contests
Farmers receiving benefits under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi will be encouraged to plant at least one tree each. Every gram secretariat, agriculture center, and public institution will also be given specific planting targets.
Focus on Tree Protection and Technology
Recognizing that planting is only the beginning, CM Yogi emphasized post-plantation care. Every sapling will be geo-tagged and fenced, with the responsibility of care shared between departments and the public.
“This is not just a government program, but a people’s movement. Every citizen, official, and family must contribute to make this a success,” CM Yogi stressed.
Building a Greener Future for Uttar Pradesh
The campaign envisions a future where every home plants a tree and takes responsibility for its growth. With this, Uttar Pradesh aims to become India’s greenest and most environmentally aware state, proving that people-powered change can combat climate threats effectively.
