UP Launches Mega Green Drive: 35 Crore Saplings to Be Planted in a Single Day

The Uttar Pradesh government has launched one of the world's largest afforestation campaigns, aiming to plant 35 crore saplings in a single day under its annual Van Mahotsav initiative. The ambitious drive seeks to increase the state's green cover, combat climate change, improve biodiversity, and encourage public participation in environmental conservation.

The plantation campaign is being carried out across all 75 districts of Uttar Pradesh, involving government departments, educational institutions, local bodies, NGOs, and millions of volunteers. Saplings are being planted along highways, riverbanks, schools, parks, village commons, and forest areas to maximize environmental benefits.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the initiative is part of the state's long-term strategy to make Uttar Pradesh greener while contributing to India's environmental commitments. The campaign includes a variety of native species such as neem, peepal, banyan, mango, jamun, and fruit-bearing trees to improve ecological balance and support local biodiversity.

Officials have stated that technology such as geo-tagging and digital monitoring will be used to track plantation sites and improve the survival rate of saplings. The government has emphasized that the success of the campaign will depend not only on planting trees but also on ensuring their proper maintenance and growth.

Environmental experts have welcomed the scale of the initiative but stress that long-term care is essential. They note that regular watering, protection from grazing, and community involvement are critical to ensuring that planted saplings mature into healthy trees.

If successfully implemented, the campaign could significantly improve air quality, reduce carbon emissions, conserve soil, and strengthen Uttar Pradesh's forest cover. The drive also aligns with India's broader climate goals and reflects the growing importance of large-scale environmental initiatives in tackling the challenges of global warming.

The 35-crore plantation campaign stands as one of the largest environmental efforts ever undertaken in India, highlighting the state's commitment to creating a greener and more sustainable future.