New Delhi, August 12: On the occasion of Greenery Amavasya, over 50,000 trees were planted across 31 states under the leadership of Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, in collaboration with the ‘Vriksh Mitra Parivar.’ The event commenced with the offering of water to the saplings and a collective planting ceremony.
In addition to New Delhi, villages, towns, panchayats, and institutions across the country participated enthusiastically in planting trees. The Vriksh Mitra Parivar played a crucial role in motivating individuals to plant at least one sapling each.
In his address, Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized that Greenery Amavasya is not merely a religious festival but an opportunity to express gratitude towards nature. He stated that in Indian culture, humans, animals, birds, rivers, mountains, and trees are all interconnected. According to him, planting trees not only enhances greenery but also secures the future for coming generations. He also highlighted the importance of not just planting trees but also committing to their protection and care.
Chouhan urged citizens to plant at least one tree each year and to involve five others in this initiative. He suggested that occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, the birth of children, and the remembrance of parents should be celebrated as ‘Vriksh Parv.’ He also called on panchayats, municipal bodies, and institutions to designate specific areas for planting to ensure the safety and regular care of the saplings.
The Minister noted that environmental degradation directly impacts agriculture, water, soil, and public health. He pointed out that for farmers today, the biggest issues are not just seeds and fertilizers, but also water availability and soil health. He asserted that protecting the environment can only be achieved by adopting Mission Life, energy conservation, and a plastic-free lifestyle. He emphasized that balanced use and conservation of nature is the right approach, rather than exploitation.
Delhi Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa remarked that the Delhi government has learned a lot from Chouhan’s initiative. He mentioned that over 100,000 people in Delhi have been engaged in this campaign, with schools, colleges, and other institutions being encouraged to plant trees. Citizens are increasingly joining this noble cause with a commitment to environmental protection.
Delhi Minister Pravesh Verma stated that everyone should pledge to save the environment through the ‘One Tree in the Name of Mother’ initiative. He acknowledged that while development is essential, environmental protection is equally critical. According to him, sustainable development can only be achieved by balancing construction and greenery.
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