CM Yogi Launches Mega 35-Crore Sapling Drive in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh aims to bolster its green cover and environmental sustainability through the 'Maha Vriksharopan 2026' campaign, a statewide initiative launched by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

GORAKHPUR — Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath officially inaugurated the "Maha Vriksharopan 2026" campaign on Sunday, July 12, setting an ambitious target to plant 35 crore saplings across the state. The massive plantation drive, anchored by the central government’s "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" (One Tree in the Name of Mother) initiative, seeks to promote large-scale public participation in environmental conservation.

Launching the drive from Gorakhpur, the Chief Minister performed a ceremonial tree plantation and established the "Holy Triveni Plantation and Development Garden." Speaking at the inaugural event, CM Adityanath described the initiative as a "grand endeavour to express gratitude to Mother Earth," emphasizing the traditional Indian values of respecting and protecting nature.

A State-Wide Environmental Push

The plantation drive, which ran across the state from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, involved an extensive mobilization of government departments, public representatives, voluntary organizations, and the general public. According to the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), the campaign is part of a long-term strategy to combat climate change, strengthen forest cover, and encourage sustainable land use.

As part of the day's events, the government also focused on green incentives by distributing certificates to local farmers under the Carbon Credit Scheme, aiming to link sustainable agricultural practices with economic rewards. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, who participated in the drive at the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Medical University, highlighted that Uttar Pradesh has consistently ranked at the forefront of national efforts to increase forest and tree cover over the past nine years.

Strategic Focus on Roadside Plantation

Complementing the 35-crore sapling target, the state also accelerated its "Mission Chhaya" plantation drive. Under this specific sub-initiative, the government is planting over 20 million saplings along key road networks, including state expressways.

Official data indicates that the Forest Department is prioritizing a variety of shade-giving and fruit-bearing species—such as Peepal, Banyan, Neem, and Jamun—to enhance ecological diversity. Special emphasis has been placed on the 594-km Ganga Expressway, where 550,000 saplings are being planted across 500 hectares, with "Harishankari" clusters (comprising Peepal, Banyan, and Pakad trees) established at every kilometer interval to improve roadside biodiversity.

Official Sources

The initiative was formally launched following extensive planning involving ministers, MPs, MLAs, and local body representatives. The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) served as the nodal source for the campaign’s objectives and execution plans.

"Under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign in Uttar Pradesh, we have a target of planting more than 35 crore trees across the state. The entire government, BJP workers, and the general public are participating enthusiastically in this drive," officials stated.

Why It Matters

This mega-drive is a significant milestone in India's environmental policy, aiming to align grassroots activism with state-level conservation goals. By involving citizens in planting trees in honor of their mothers, the campaign seeks to foster a deeper, more emotional connection between the public and environmental protection. For the state of Uttar Pradesh, this drive is crucial for improving its carbon footprint and ensuring a more sustainable future for its growing urban and rural landscapes.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Statewide Target: 35 crore saplings planted across Uttar Pradesh on July 12, 2026.

• Central Theme: The drive is part of the nationwide "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" (One Tree in the Name of Mother) initiative.

• Strategic Focus: "Mission Chhaya" focuses specifically on planting over 20 million shade-giving trees along expressways and roads.

• Sustainability Incentives: The state government distributed certificates to farmers under a new Carbon Credit Scheme to encourage green agriculture.

FAQ

What is the 'Maha Vriksharopan 2026' campaign? It is a massive, one-day statewide plantation drive in Uttar Pradesh with a goal to plant 35 crore trees to increase green cover and promote environmental awareness.

What is the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative? Launched under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this initiative encourages citizens to plant a tree as a tribute to their mothers, merging environmental responsibility with emotional significance.

What species are being planted along the roadsides? The government is planting native, shade-giving, and fruit-bearing trees including Peepal, Banyan, Neem, Mango, Jamun, and Mahua to ensure better survival rates and ecological balance.

How is the government ensuring the survival of the saplings? The government has implemented measures such as wire fencing for protection and the provision of drip irrigation systems to ensure a high survival rate for the newly planted saplings.

Source: Chief Minister's Office, Uttar Pradesh (CMO), ANI News, Daily Pioneer, Times of India, Passionate In Marketing