 Early Times Report
Ayodhya, July 9: During his visit to Ayodhya on Wednesday, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath planted saplings of banyan, neem, and peepal at Triveni Vatika on the banks of the Saryu River, dedicating them to Lord Shri Ram, Mother Earth, and ‘Janmadayini Maa (all mothers)’ under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign. Addressing a public gathering on the sacred soil of Rampur Halwara, he emphasized the initiative’s vital role in tackling climate change and promoting environmental conservation.
Highlighting Uttar Pradesh’s environmental progress over the past eight years, the Chief Minister informed that over 204 crore saplings have been planted, with a remarkable 75% survival rate. “This massive effort has led to a 5 lakh acre increase in the state’s forest cover,” he pointed out.
“We have turned the heatwave into a green wave,” CM Yogi said, emphasizing that this initiative not only helps in purifying the environment, but also plays a critical role in mitigating the adverse effects of climate change. Quoting renowned scientist Jagdish Chandra Bose, he affirmed that trees possess life and serve vital functions, providing shade, fruits, conserving soil, and reducing pollution. Describing the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign as an expression of gratitude towards both Mother Earth and all mothers, CM Yogi cited the Vedic verse “Mata Bhoomi: Putroham Prithivyaah”, meaning, “The Earth is my mother, and I am her son.” He stated that a true son protects and serves his mother. The campaign saw enthusiastic participation from citizens, who began planting trees as early as 7:00 AM across the state. He asserted that this movement is a pledge to improve the present and safeguard the future, as trees offer protection against pollution, respiratory ailments, and the harmful effects of carbon emissions. Calling climate change a global crisis, the Chief Minister attributed extreme weather events—like excessive rainfall, droughts, and cloudbursts—to unplanned development.
He cited a recent example from Texas, USA, where hundreds of children reportedly went missing due to sudden flooding. CM Yogi emphasised that sustainable development and environmental conservation must go hand in hand, which can be achieved through planned and scientific interventions.
He also noted that when the campaign began eight years ago, only 5 crore saplings were available. Today, thanks to the collective efforts of the Forest Department, MGNREGA, and private sector partners, 52 crore saplings have been prepared for plantation.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted that the ongoing plantation campaign is not just an environmental boon, but also a catalyst for rural prosperity. Under the carbon financing initiative, farmers are receiving $6 per tree for a period of five years. He shared that over 25,000 farmers benefited from the scheme last year, and this year, Rs 42 lakh in carbon credits will be distributed among farmers across seven commissionerates. |
