The Ministry of Defence (MOD) will spearhead a nationwide tree plantation drive on August 15, marking the 78th Independence Day. The initiative, part of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, aims to plant 1.5 million trees.
This campaign will be executed by the three armed services and various affiliated organizations, including DRDO, Defence PSUs, CGDA, NCC, Sainik Schools, and ordnance factories, according to a press release from the MOD.
The ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign was initially launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 5 during World Environment Day. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh participated in the launch by planting a tree in memory of his mother and encouraged public involvement to bolster environmental protection efforts.
On July 21, a ‘Raahigiri’ event took place at Arjun Chowk, Brahamasarovar in Kurukshetra, themed around “Ek Pedh Maa Ke Naam.” Thousands of residents participated in planting trees. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini was the chief guest at this event, which also featured cultural performances, sports activities, and various departmental stalls.
CM Saini praised the large turnout and noted the significance of such programs in engaging the youth. He emphasized the need for increased tree planting to combat rising pollution levels, aiming to boost the state’s tree count to 15 million and enhance the living environment in Haryana.