Uttar Pradesh launches 5‑crore tree‑planting drive on World Environment Day

On 5 June, marking World Environment Day, the Uttar Pradesh government inaugurated the "Ek Ped Maan Ke Naam" campaign, targeting the planting of 5 crore saplings across the state. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath opened the drive in Lucknow’s Kuakrai forest area and called on citizens, schools, NGOs and local bodies to participate.

During the ceremony, the chief minister honoured student winners of logo‑design and painting contests and six village heads, awarding cash prizes ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹50,000. Organisers say the programme will focus on medicinal, fruit and shade‑bearing trees, and includes monitoring and maintenance plans to ensure long‑term survival. The initiative is presented as a key component of the state’s broader "Green Uttar Pradesh" effort to improve climate balance, air quality and biodiversity.

The campaign seeks to foster public awareness of environmental protection and encourage widespread tree‑planting habits among residents.