Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini has called upon citizens to actively participate in environmental protection by planting trees, with the goal of ensuring a greener and more sustainable future. Addressing a state-level Van Mahotsav in Morni (Panchkula), he announced the State Government’s ambitious target of planting 2.10 crore saplings this year. He also urged every family to plant at least one tree during the monsoon season.
Highlighting the success of the first phase of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, the Chief Minister noted that 1.87 crore saplings were planted—exceeding the original target of 1.60 crore.
To enhance accountability and effectiveness, he announced that all plantations by the Forest Department will be geo-tagged and mapped using drones, with growth monitored for up to five years. Since October 2014, 18 crore trees have been planted across Haryana.
Promotion of Eco-Tourism and Green Development
On this occasion, the CM released two informative booklets from the Forests and Wildlife Department—focusing on the development of Herbal Vatikas and Nature Trails to boost eco-tourism in the Morni area. Responding to demands raised by local MLA Smt. Shakti Rani Sharma, he assured that development projects would be considered after departmental feasibility assessments.
Citizens Must Take Collective Responsibility
The CM stressed the vital role trees play in producing oxygen and combating climate change, adding that while governments can initiate programs, public participation is essential. He urged citizens to treat planted trees like their own children for at least five years. Highlighting the ancient wisdom of “Vriksho Rakshati Rakshitah” (those who protect trees are protected by them), he described Van Mahotsav as a symbolic commitment to safeguard nature.
Record Development in Kalka Constituency
Referring to developmental achievements, the CM noted that Rs 2,446 crore worth of projects have been executed in the Kalka constituency since 2014—significantly higher than the Rs 304 crore spent during the previous 10-year Congress regime. Out of 171 announcements made, 60 projects have been completed and 9 are underway.
Pranavayu Devta Pension Scheme to Honor Old Trees
The CM highlighted the Pranavayu Devta Pension Scheme, which offers Rs. 3,000 annually for trees over 75 years old. So far, Rs. 1 crore has been distributed to caretakers of 3,800 such trees. Haryana has also developed herbal parks, an international-level herbal forest in Morni, and Oxy-vans to enhance green cover and air quality.
Green Aravalli Action Plan and Water Conservation Efforts
He also mentioned the launch of the Green Aravalli Action Plan—a joint effort by the Centre and State to rejuvenate the Aravalli hills, covering 29 districts across four states, including five in Haryana. In the hilly Shivalik region, the construction of check dams has improved groundwater levels and provided water for wildlife.
Celebrating Special Moments with Tree Plantations
The CM encouraged people to mark important life events—like birthdays and anniversaries—by planting trees. He emphasized that informed citizens should report unhealthy trees to the Forest Department for proper care.
Van Mahotsav: A People’s Movement
Environment Minister Rao Narbir Singh called for transforming Van Mahotsav into a public movement, not just a symbolic gesture. He emphasized that oxygen-giving trees are critical to improving the Air Quality Index, which has deteriorated due to pollution.
MLA Praises State’s Progress
MLA Smt. Shakti Rani Sharma praised the CM’s leadership and reaffirmed her commitment to making Kalka the leading constituency in development. She thanked him for promoting eco-tourism and urged citizens to plant maximum saplings.
The event was attended by senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary (Environment) Sh. Anand Mohan Sharan, PCCF Sh. Vineet Garg, and OSD to the CM Sh. B.B. Bharti.