The Haryana Chief Minister, Nayab Singh Saini, has stated the importance of not only planting saplings during Van Mahotsav but also ensuring their survival through adequate care and maintenance. He believes that this initiative should evolve beyond mere plantation drives, transforming into a widespread movement that actively involves the public to enhance environmental conservation and increase the greenery of the state.

This declaration came during a review meeting in Chandigarh on July 21, where preparations for the forthcoming Van Mahotsav were discussed. Saini clarified that significant public participation is essential to strengthen the campaign’s objectives.

Target and Phases of Planting Campaign

The Forest Department aims to contribute 1.10 crore saplings across approximately 3,400 designated locations, while other governmental departments will plant 30 lakh saplings at nearly 900 locations. The initiative will be conducted in four phases, scheduled for July 30, August 7, August 14, and August 21, with clear responsibilities assigned to various departments for each phase.

Furthermore, the meeting outlined a detailed framework for conducting the state-level Van Mahotsav programme. Officials were directed to ensure that social organisations, non-governmental organisations, and the general public are actively engaged in this campaign.

Urban Bodies and Community Involvement

Additionally, Saini emphasised the need for selecting appropriate shade-giving tree species that possess controlled heights for roadside plantations. He suggested that plantations at major intersections and public spaces not only contribute to the environment but also improve the aesthetic value of urban locales.

Monitoring and Educational Initiatives

In pursuit of ensuring the sustained growth of the saplings, officials indicated that every sapling planted within this year’s campaign would be geo-tagged, facilitating regular monitoring and maintenance. The Chief Minister insisted that Urban Local Bodies collaborate with Ward Committees to support the active participation of communities in the upkeep of these saplings.

Additionally, he called for the involvement of the Education Department, school students, School Management Committees, and their parents to foster widespread awareness regarding environmental conservation. This collaborative approach is expected to encourage the youth to engage actively in the campaign.

MLAs, Ministers, and other public representatives are also set to take part in the plantation drives to further motivate the populace. Saini concluded the meeting with instructions for every department to ensure regular maintenance of planted saplings, thus guaranteeing that they survive and yield long-term environmental benefits for the state.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share