Summary
Uttar Pradesh planted 35 crore saplings in just 12 hours as part of the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak said the state's green cover has been growing steadily since 2017. The health and medical education department also contributed by planting over 16 lakh saplings. This large-scale drive aims to boost environmental protection across the state.
Main Impact
The massive plantation drive in Uttar Pradesh shows the state government's strong focus on increasing green cover. Planting 35 crore saplings in half a day is a record effort. It directly helps fight air pollution, reduce heat, and improve the environment for millions of people. The campaign also involves every government department, making it a whole-of-government approach to environmental action.
Key Details
What Happened
On July 12, 2026, the Uttar Pradesh government organized a mega plantation drive under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign. Officials, workers, and citizens planted 35 crore saplings across the state within 12 hours. The drive was part of a larger state-level push to increase forest and tree cover.
Important Numbers and Facts
The key figures from the drive are:
- Total saplings planted: 35 crore (350 million)
- Time taken: 12 hours
- Saplings planted by health department: Over 16 lakh (1.6 million)
- Campaign name: Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam (A Tree in Mother's Name)
- State: Uttar Pradesh, India
Background and Context
Uttar Pradesh is one of India's most populous states, with high pollution levels in many cities. Increasing green cover is a key way to clean the air, lower temperatures, and support wildlife. The state government has been running large plantation drives every year since 2017. The 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign encourages people to plant a tree in honor of their mother, making the act personal and meaningful. This year's target was set very high to speed up environmental improvement.
Public or Industry Reaction
Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak said the government is fully dedicated to environmental protection. He noted that the state's green cover has been increasing every year since 2017. The health and medical education department also actively participated, planting over 16 lakh saplings. No major public criticism or opposition was reported. The drive appeared to have broad support from government staff and local communities.
What This Means Going Forward
This plantation drive will significantly increase Uttar Pradesh's green cover over the next few years. However, the survival of these saplings depends on proper care, watering, and protection from animals. The government will need to follow up with maintenance programs. If successful, this effort can serve as a model for other states. It also shows that large-scale environmental action is possible with strong political will and public participation.
Final Take
Planting 35 crore trees in a single day is an impressive achievement. But the real test lies in ensuring these saplings grow into healthy trees. Uttar Pradesh's consistent focus on green cover since 2017 is a positive sign. If the state can maintain this momentum and care for the new plants, it will make a real difference to the environment and people's health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign?
It is a plantation drive by the Uttar Pradesh government where people plant a tree in the name of their mother. The goal is to increase green cover and promote environmental protection.
How many saplings were planted in this drive?
The state government planted 35 crore (350 million) saplings in 12 hours on July 12, 2026.
Why is this plantation drive important?
It helps reduce air pollution, lower temperatures, and improve the environment in one of India's most populous states. It also shows how large-scale government action can address climate and environmental challenges.
