Ayodhya, July 9: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday planted Banyan, Neem and Peepal saplings under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign in Triveni Vatika on the banks of Saryu river in Ayodhya.
In a public meeting organized on the holy land of Ayodhya, he emphasized the importance of this drive for environmental protection and climate change.
Chief Minister said that in the last eight years, Uttar Pradesh has made unprecedented progress in the direction of environmental protection. During this, 204 crore saplings were planted, out of which 75 percent of the plants are alive. As a result, forest cover has increased by 5 lakh acres in the state.
CM Yogi said that we have converted heatwave into greenwave. This effort is not only helpful in keeping the environment clean, but is also contributing significantly in reducing the ill effects of climate change. Referring to scientist Jagadish Chandra Basu, he said that trees also have life and they play an important role in shade, fruits, soil conservation and pollution control.
Importance of ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign
CM Yogi described the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign as a symbol of gratitude towards Mother Earth and the mother who gave birth.
Referring to the Vedic line from Atharva Veda “Mata Bhoomi Putrohaam Prithviyaah”, he said that a true son is the one who serves and protects his mother. Under this campaign, the people of the state started planting saplings with enthusiasm from 7 am.
Yogi said that this campaign is a resolution to improve the present and secure the future. Trees will protect us from pollution, respiratory diseases and the ill effects of carbon emissions.
Explaining the scientific approach against climate change
Chief Minister said that climate change is a global challenge and incidents like excessive rain, drought and cloudburst are the result of unplanned development. He mentioned a recent incident in Texas, USA, where hundreds of children went missing in a sudden flood.
CM Yogi stressed that a balance can be established between development and environmental protection through planned and scientific efforts.
He said that in this campaign started eight years ago, only 5 crore saplings were available initially, but with the cooperation of Forest Department, MNREGA and private sector, 52 crore saplings have been prepared today.
CM Yogi said that through carbon financing, farmers are being given $6 per tree for five years. Last year, more than 25 thousand farmers got this benefit and this year Rs 42 lakh will be provided to the farmers of seven commissionerates in the form of carbon credit. On this occasion, those farmers were honored who contributed to planting and their care.
Ayodhya has been rejuvenated and the dream of solarcity has come true
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed pride over the changing form of Ayodhya and said that this ancient city is becoming a center of attraction for the country and the world today.
He said that Ayodhya, which was once deserted, is today moving towards Treta Yug glory. Referring to making Ayodhya the country’s first solar city, he said that efforts like international airport and forest development through Miyawaki method are enriching it further. Those who contributed to the revival of Tilodki river were also honored.
Expressed commitment to realize PM Modi’s vision
Chief Minister praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of environmental protection and said that this campaign started under his leadership has played an important role in taking Uttar Pradesh towards a green future. He described steps like removing stoves and banning gas cylinders, LED lights and single-use plastic as important for protecting Mother Earth.
CM Yogi said that after the Pran Pratishtha of Shri Ram temple by PM Modi last year, the launch of the plantation campaign in Ayodhya this year holds special significance.
Appreciating the active participation of all public representatives and people of the state in this campaign, Yogi said that this campaign will run till 7 pm.
He appealed to everyone to join this great campaign and contribute to environmental protection. Reiterating his commitment to the development of Ayodhya, he said that I am always with Ayodhya. This campaign will give more glory to Ayodhya on the world stage.