Rajya Sabha MP Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Friday, 5 June called on citizens to plant at least one tree under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign, marking World Environment Day with a direct appeal for mass participation in afforestation. Shringla described the initiative as a reflection of the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, under whose leadership the campaign has grown into a nationwide movement.

Shringla's Appeal and Personal Gesture

Speaking on the occasion, Shringla emphasised the urgency of expanding green cover in the face of accelerating climate change. 'Today is a very important day. We are witnessing the growing impact of climate change across the country and the world, whether in the Himalayan region, coastal areas, or desert regions,' he said.

He pointed to shifting weather patterns in Delhi — hotter summers and colder winters — as tangible evidence of climate disruption. To lead by example, Shringla said he personally planted a guava tree and a neem tree as part of the campaign. 'These are symbolic gestures, but we want every citizen to plant at least one tree, or even more if possible. This can become a nationwide movement,' he added.

About the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' Campaign

Launched under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' (One Tree in Mother's Name) campaign has drawn participation from millions across India, positioning tree-planting as both an environmental act and a personal tribute. The initiative seeks to build collective responsibility toward nature conservation and green cover restoration.

Shringla also noted that West Bengal former Legislative Assembly Speaker Biman Banerjee was in Delhi for consultations and had met both the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister during the day.

World Environment Day: Background and Significance

World Environment Day, observed annually on 5 June, is led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and has grown into one of the largest global platforms for environmental advocacy, involving more than 150 countries. Its origins trace back to the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment held in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1972 — a landmark moment in international ecological governance. The first official observance was held in 1973.

Each year, a host country is selected and a specific theme spotlights a pressing environmental concern — from climate change and pollution to biodiversity loss and resource depletion. Activities range from tree-planting drives and beach clean-ups to educational programmes and policy initiatives.

Individual Action and Collective Impact

Beyond government and institutional efforts, the day underscores the role of individual choices — reducing waste, conserving water, using public transport, and planting trees — as collectively meaningful contributions to environmental protection. Shringla's appeal on Friday aligned squarely with that message, urging citizens to treat afforestation not as a one-off gesture but as a sustained, personal commitment.

As climate pressures intensify across India's diverse geographies, campaigns like 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' are expected to gain further institutional backing in the months ahead.