Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini said that protecting nature and the environment is not just a government programme but a shared duty of every citizen. While pursuing continuous development, we must remember that nature and trees are the foundation of life. Problems like climate change, erratic rainfall, and rising temperatures can only be addressed through large-scale tree plantation and protection, which is vital for securing our future. The Haryana Government has set a target of planting 2.10 crore saplings under various campaigns, to be achieved with collective participation.
CM Nayab Singh Saini was speaking at the 76th State-Level Van Mahotsav held at Seonsar in Kurukshetra district. Before the programme, he laid the foundation stone for the Saraswati Wetland Reservoir, Saraswati Flora & Biodiversity Conservation Park, and Saraswati Jungle Safari, and also released the ‘Triphala’ booklet. He planted saplings to spread the message of environmental conservation and unveiled the Haryana Wildlife Map, Kurukshetra Wildlife Map, and five publications of the Forest Department.
Calling Van Mahotsav a symbol of gratitude, responsibility, and resolve for a greener future, he said it reminds us that forests are not merely a source of wood but the basis of life itself. While modernisation advances, this festival urges us to coexist with nature rather than exploit it. The state has launched multiple plantation drives and formulated plans to expand forest cover, yielding positive results.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, launched on June 5, 2024, he said Haryana surpassed its first-phase target of 1.60 crore saplings by planting 1.87 crore. The second phase, started this year, aims for 2.10 crore saplings. Since October 2014, about 18 crore saplings have been planted in Haryana.
The government is also promoting urban forestry, taking strict action against illegal tree felling, and safeguarding wildlife. Initiatives like jeep safaris, children’s study tours at Kalesar, and the Green Aravalli Action Plan are encouraging public participation. The Pran Vayu Devta Pension Scheme grants ₹3,000 annually for the care of trees over 75 years old, benefitting caretakers of 3,800 trees so far. Herbal parks and an international-level medicinal forest in Morni have also been established.
CM Nayab Singh Saini urged panchayats, municipal bodies, and social groups to make tree plantation a people’s movement, encouraging students to plant and nurture trees. He expressed confidence in building a future where development and environmental protection go hand in hand, leaving a greener legacy for generations.
Addressing political matters, he said that despite India’s rapid progress under PM Modi over the past 11 years, the opposition remains focused on criticism. He accused them of shifting from blaming EVMs to alleging “vote theft,” and reminded that people had rejected them for their misdeeds. Highlighting Operation Sindoor, he criticised the opposition for questioning the bravery of Indian soldiers and reiterated the government’s resolve to make India a developed nation by 2047.
On the occasion, MP Sh. Naveen Jindal said Van Mahotsav is not only about planting trees but also about connecting culture, nature, and tourism. Applauding Haryana’s implementation of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, he noted that projects like the Saraswati Wetland Reservoir and Biodiversity Park will become model sites for eco-tourism and wildlife conservation. He suggested developing the area into a wildlife sanctuary and urged citizens to plant at least five trees each year.
The event was attended by former Minister Sh. Subhash Sudha, Vice Chairman of the Haryana Saraswati Heritage Development Board Sh. Dhooman Singh Kirmach, CM’s OSD Sh. Bharat Bhushan Bharti, and other dignitaries.