Uttar Pradesh Breaks Record by Planting Over 37 Crore Saplings in a Single Day

“Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”: A Tree for Every Mother

The plantation drive was inspired by the campaign “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (One Tree in Mother’s Name), which connects the nurturing love of a mother to the life-giving power of trees. It invited people from all walks of life — families, students, farmers, and officials — to plant saplings as a symbol of gratitude toward nature and a promise to protect it.

This campaign turned into a vibrant movement, uniting communities across cities and villages, busy roadsides and quiet fields, in a common mission to bring new life and shade to the land.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath led by example, planting saplings in Ayodhya, Azamgarh, and Gorakhpur. His personal involvement inspired thousands to join hands with government workers and volunteers. Together, they worked tirelessly, each sapling representing a small act of love and responsibility toward the earth.

The state’s 75 districts joined this green wave, with Sonbhadra leading the charge by planting over 1.58 crore saplings. Behind these numbers lie countless stories of people dedicating their time and effort — teachers guiding students, farmers preparing land, local leaders encouraging their neighbors.

Government departments, too, played their part, with the Forest Department planting 14 crore saplings and the Rural Development Department adding more than 13 crore. Everyone was united by the belief that even the smallest seed can grow into a mighty tree.

The saplings included species like Neem, Peepal, Shisham, and Bamboo — trees that not only clean the air but also provide shade, fruit, and medicine. Beyond the numbers, what matters most is that these young plants have a strong chance to survive and thrive. Thanks to care and attention, the survival rate of saplings has risen to over 96% recently, ensuring that this effort will truly transform the landscape.

This is just the beginning. Uttar Pradesh plans to nurture special thematic forests — Eklavya, Shakti, Oxy, Ekta, and Shaurya — places where nature, community, and culture come together. The first, Eklavya Forest, will open soon in Pilibhit, offering not just trees but spaces for learning, reflection, and celebration.

Trees are more than just plants; they are lifelines. They breathe life into our cities and villages by cleaning the air, preventing floods, and sheltering wildlife. They cool down hot summers, feed families with fruits, and connect us to our natural heritage.

The people of Uttar Pradesh have shown what can happen when hope, hard work, and care come together. Their hands planting saplings today are planting dreams of a healthier planet, cleaner air, and a future where nature and humanity flourish side by side.

Of course, planting a tree is only the first step. These young saplings need protection, water, and love to grow tall and strong. The real challenge is ongoing care, and the state is calling on every community member to nurture these trees, guarding this precious gift for the future.

The record-breaking plantation drive in Uttar Pradesh is a testament to the power of collective action and the deep bond between people and nature. It reminds us all that every small step counts and that together, we can cultivate a greener, kinder world.