Shahid Peer
Kupwara: Kamraj Forest Division, Kupwara organized a plantation drive under the initiative “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” at Closure Unit 18, Sogam Range. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from civil society members, J&K Youth Welfare Forum, local residents, students, and frontline staff from the Forest and Forest Protection Force (FPF).
As part of the drive, around 200 saplings were planted, with a target of 2,000 saplings to be planted in the closure unit, each dedicated to the name of a mother.
The “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on World Environment Day 2024, blending environmental responsibility with a heartfelt tribute to mothers. The campaign was inaugurated with the planting of a Peepal tree at Buddha Jayanti Park in Delhi, symbolizing both sustainability and gratitude.
Speaking on the occasion, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Kamraj, Anurag Arya, IFS, lauded the active participation of the community and emphasized the significance of tree plantation in combating environmental challenges.
“I extend my gratitude to the locals, civil society members, and all participants for their dedication to this noble cause. Together, we can make a significant impact in building a sustainable and cleaner environment,” he said.
The DFO also highlighted that 170,033 saplings have been planted during the financial year under various afforestation initiatives, underscoring the department’s commitment to environmental conservation.
The “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign aims to inspire individuals to plant trees in their mother’s name, recognizing both the nurturing role of mothers and the life-sustaining benefits of trees. By combining emotional appeal with ecological action, the movement fosters a deeper connection to sustainability and encourages people across India to contribute to a greener future.
This initiative is expected to serve as a lasting tribute while significantly enhancing forest cover, mitigating climate change, and promoting biodiversity in the region.
