Did UP CM Yogi Adityanath Really Plant 204 Crore Saplings?

Ayodhya, July 9 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, planted saplings of banyan, neem, and peepal at Triveni Vatika along the banks of the Saryu River in Ayodhya, dedicating this initiative to Lord Shri Ram, Mother Earth, and ‘Janmadayini Maa’ (all mothers) as part of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign.

During a public address, he emphasized the necessity of addressing climate change and highlighted the government's commitment to environmental sustainability.

He announced that over 204 crore saplings have been planted with an impressive 75% survival rate over the last eight years.

“This extensive initiative has resulted in a significant increase of 5 lakh acres in the state’s forest cover,” he remarked.

CM Yogi stated, “We have transformed a heatwave into a green wave,” spotlighting how this movement contributes to environmental purification and helps in countering the negative impacts of climate change.

He described the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign as a tribute to both Mother Earth and all mothers, referencing the Vedic saying “Mata Bhoomi: Putroham Prithivyaah,” which translates to, “The Earth is my mother, and I am her son.”

According to the Chief Minister, this initiative is a commitment to enhance the present and protect the future since trees provide a shield against pollution, respiratory issues, and the detrimental effects of carbon emissions.

He further mentioned that when the campaign was initiated eight years ago, there were merely 5 crore saplings available. Today, thanks to collaborative efforts from the Forest Department, MGNREGA, and private sector partners, 52 crore saplings are ready for planting.

The current plantation initiative also supports rural prosperity, offering farmers $6 per tree for a period of five years. He noted that last year, more than 25,000 farmers benefited from this program, and this year, Rs 42 lakh in carbon credits will be distributed among farmers across seven commissionerates.

Farmers who have significantly contributed to this effort were honored during the event.

Proudly reflecting on Ayodhya’s transformation, CM Yogi stated that the once-silent city is evolving into a significant hub of global and national interest.

“Ayodhya is progressively reclaiming its Treta Yuga splendor and is on track to become India’s first solar city,” he asserted.

He also highlighted key developmental projects, including the construction of an international airport and the implementation of the Miyawaki method for forest development.

The Chief Minister pointed out the special importance of launching this plantation campaign in Ayodhya, particularly following the historic Pran Pratishtha of the Shri Ram Temple by PM Modi last year.

He commended the enthusiastic involvement of public representatives and citizens, stating that the campaign will continue until 7 PM. He encouraged everyone to partake in this noble cause and contribute to environmental preservation.

Identifying climate change as a global emergency, he linked extreme weather occurrences, such as severe rainfall, droughts, and cloudbursts, to unplanned development. He referenced a recent incident from Texas, USA, where numerous children went missing due to unexpected flooding.

He reiterated the urgency of aligning sustainable development with environmental conservation, asserting that this can be achieved through planned and scientific measures.