Image Source: The CSR Journal
In a sweeping move toward environmental restoration and public engagement, the state of Uttar Pradesh is set to plant 15 lakh saplings as part of the nationwide Seva Parv campaign, which runs from September 17 to October 2, 2025. This ambitious initiative aligns with India’s broader goal of planting 1.25 crore saplings across states, making it one of the largest coordinated afforestation drives in recent history.
Spearheaded by the Yogi Adityanath government, the campaign is not just about planting trees—it’s a multi-dimensional movement aimed at fostering ecological awareness, promoting sustainable practices, and encouraging community participation in environmental stewardship.
A Statewide Green Surge
Uttar Pradesh’s target of 15 lakh saplings places it second only to Odisha (20 lakh) in terms of contribution to the national goal. The campaign will kick off with a symbolic plantation of at least 100 saplings in each of the state’s 34 Nagar Vans (urban forests) on the opening day. These green pockets will serve as focal points for community engagement and environmental education.
All 75 districts of the state will participate, with Divisional Forest Officers (DFOs) appointed as nodal officers to oversee planning, execution, and monitoring. The saplings will be selected based on ecological suitability, and data—including photographs—will be uploaded to the Meri Life portal to ensure transparency and accountability.
Beyond Trees: A Holistic Environmental Push
Seva Parv in Uttar Pradesh is being celebrated as a “Swachh Utsav”, integrating cleanliness drives, anti-plastic campaigns, and biodiversity conservation efforts. The initiative will include:
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Rainwater harvesting workshops across districts
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Clean-up drives in forest offices, depots, zoos, and bird sanctuaries
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Awareness campaigns on single-use plastic reduction
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Weed removal in protected areas and sanctuaries
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Cultural events and street plays to engage local communities
On September 25, the birth anniversary of Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya, a mega plantation drive will be held across all districts, marking a high point in the campaign.
Community at the Core
The success of Seva Parv hinges on mass participation. Schools, NGOs, self-help groups, eco clubs, and civic bodies will play a central role. Special volunteer groups like Tiger Mitras, Sarus Mitras, and Wetland Mitras will assist in mobilizing efforts at the grassroots level.
District-level intellectual forums will host dialogues on themes like “Viksit Bharat” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat”, focusing on forest conservation, water resource management, and sustainable development. These discussions aim to inspire long-term behavioral change and policy innovation.
Sustainability and Monitoring
To ensure the saplings survive and thrive, District Plantation Committees will coordinate with various departments for post-plantation care. This includes fencing, watering, and protection from grazing. The forest department will also contribute to local fairs and exhibitions, showcasing green technologies and conservation models.
The campaign’s digital backbone—the Meri Life portal—will serve as a real-time dashboard for tracking progress, uploading geo-tagged photos, and maintaining plantation records.
A Model for Green Governance
Uttar Pradesh’s proactive approach under Seva Parv sets a benchmark for other states. By combining afforestation with education, sanitation, and civic engagement, the campaign reflects a modern model of green governance—one that’s inclusive, data-driven, and future-focused.
As climate change continues to challenge ecosystems and urban resilience, initiatives like Seva Parv offer a blueprint for how states can mobilize citizens toward meaningful environmental action.
Sources: MSN News, MSN News
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