Bhubaneswar: In a major push to make the state greener and more climate-resilient, the Odisha government has set a target of planting over 75 lakh saplings in a single day.
This forms part of the national tree plantation campaign “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0” being held to commemorate Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday. The nationwide campaign aims to plant 1.5 crore saplings across the country in a single day.
Chairing a meeting, Forest, Environment & Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia emphasised the importance of trees in reducing pollution, improving the environment, and protecting against climate change. He stressed that planting saplings is not enough; they must also be properly cared for to grow into healthy trees. The minister highlighted the need for special focus on industrial areas and regions with less rainfall or dry land.
Last year, Odisha planted 6.72 crore saplings under the same campaign and ranked fourth in the country. This year, under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, the state has set an even bigger target of 7.5 crore saplings. The forest department has already planted 4.7 crore saplings in the past 45 days.
The government has invited everyone, including panchayats, students, youth, and various community groups, to participate in the campaign. Participants are encouraged to upload photos of their plantation activities on the “Meri LiFE” portal to track progress.
Satyabrata Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary, Forest, Environment & Climate Change Department, has asked all district and field officials to complete the plantation between sunrise and sunset on September 17. He also reminded everyone not to forget to upload the data on the portal.
The meeting was attended by Principal Chief Conservator of Forest Suresh Pant, CAMPA CEO G. Rajesh, senior officers, and Divisional Forest Officers from all districts.
