On the occasion of World Environment Day, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, planted a sapling at Smart City Park in Bhopal as part of the nationwide ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The minister used the occasion to urge citizens across the country to actively participate in environmental conservation by making tree plantation a regular habit.
Extending his greetings to people on World Environment Day, Chouhan emphasized that the future of humanity is closely linked to the health of the environment. He said that planting trees is not merely an environmental activity but a meaningful step towards safeguarding nature, humanity, and future generations. According to him, the protection of forests, water resources, land, and biodiversity depends significantly on increasing green cover.
The Union Minister highlighted the vital role trees play in maintaining ecological balance. He noted that trees contribute to rainfall, help preserve rivers, prevent soil erosion, and support biodiversity. “If there are trees, there is life,” he remarked, stressing that environmental protection should become a personal responsibility for every citizen.
During the event, Chouhan reflected on his long-standing commitment to tree plantation. Standing beside a banyan tree he had planted in 2021 at the same park, he shared how the sapling had grown into a large and thriving tree over the years. He recalled taking a pledge in Amarkantak to plant a tree every day and said the banyan tree was the first sapling he planted after arriving in Bhopal.
Observing birds nesting and chirping among the branches of the now-mature tree, the minister expressed immense satisfaction and happiness. Drawing a comparison between trees and children, he said both require care and nurturing to grow and flourish. Just as children become valuable contributors to society when raised with love and attention, a small sapling can develop into a giant tree that benefits both society and nature.
Chouhan encouraged people to connect tree plantation with important milestones and celebrations in their lives. While acknowledging that planting trees daily may not be possible for everyone, he suggested that individuals could plant saplings on birthdays, wedding anniversaries, family celebrations, and in memory of loved ones. Such practices, he said, would strengthen the culture of environmental stewardship and make conservation efforts more meaningful.
Referring to the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, the minister said the initiative has inspired millions of people across the country to plant trees in honour of their mothers. He shared that he had also planted a tree in memory of his late mother, Smt. Sundar Devi Ji, making the gesture both personal and symbolic.
The minister further stated that environmental protection cannot be achieved through discussions and speeches alone. Concrete action on the ground is essential to address environmental challenges. He revealed that he has maintained his commitment to planting a tree every day for the past five and a half years without missing a single day.
According to Chouhan, the tree plantation movement has gradually evolved from a personal pledge into a broad public campaign. Increasing numbers of children, youth, and citizens are now participating in plantation drives, reflecting growing awareness about environmental conservation.
Expressing optimism about the future, Chouhan said that society is becoming increasingly conscious of environmental issues and that the younger generation is embracing sustainable practices. He called upon citizens to continue contributing towards a greener and healthier India through collective action, ensuring that environmental protection remains a shared national mission.
Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
