Mega Drive to Plant 21 Lakh Saplings Launched in Indore: CM Mohan Yadav Says Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam Campaign Ensures Lasting Legacy of Clean Air
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has stated that Nature is a manifestation of the Divine, as it sustains life and nourishes humanity. Therefore, everyone should become a worshipper and protector of nature. He said that trees are not only the foundation of life but also the adornment of the Earth. Like sages engaged in meditation, trees remain rooted in one place, absorbing negative energy and selflessly providing positive energy in the form of life-giving oxygen.
CM plants orange sapling in memory of his mother
CM Dr. Mohan Yadav was addressing a plantation programme organised at the Border Security Force (BSF) campus in Budania village of Indore district on Sunday. He inaugurated the mega campaign to plant 21 lakh saplings and establish 51 thousand rainwater harvesting units by planting a fruit-bearing orange sapling in memory of his revered mother, Late Smt. Leela Bai Yadav, and lighting the ceremonial lamp.
The Chief Minister appreciated the active participation of society in the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign and the broader mission to conserve water, forests and the environment, and called upon everyone to contribute collectively to these efforts.
CM said that transforming barren land into green cover is akin to draping Mother Nature in a green mantle. He described the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign, launched at the initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as much more than a government programme. He said, "It is a mission to ensure a lasting source of the life-sustaining air we breathe." He added that the campaign is dedicated to protecting water, forests, land and wildlife—the four pillars of the ecological system.
Rs 2 Lakh Each to be Awarded to Prithvi Foundation and 2 BSF Personnel
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav announced an incentive of Rs 2 lakh for the Prithvi Foundation, a social organisation working alongside the government on plantation and water conservation initiatives. He also announced an incentive of Rs 2 lakh each for two BSF personnel in recognition of their outstanding contributions to anti-Naxal operations in the state.
Indore Sets an Example in Water Conservation
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that Indore, the city of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, is renowned for reviving and preserving the rich traditions of Sanatan culture. During her reign, Devi Ahilyabai not only fulfilled her administrative responsibilities but also promoted harmony with nature by constructing wells and stepwells across the region. Inspired by her vision, the Madhya Pradesh Government has undertaken a statewide campaign to restore and rejuvenate rivers, ponds, wells and stepwells.
CM said that Indore has undertaken extensive work in water conservation and shown the nation a successful model for protecting water resources, enabling Madhya Pradesh to earn national recognition in this field. The Chief Minister said, referring to emerging climate challenges such as El Niño, that large-scale plantation remains the most effective way to maintain ecological balance, making the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign a timely and inspiring initiative.
Indore sets new benchmarks
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that whenever Indore undertakes an initiative, it sets new benchmarks. Whether in water conservation, afforestation or environmental protection, the city continues to lead by example. He noted that the plantation drive involves planting saplings measuring 8 to 10 feet in height, enabling them to establish quickly and bear fruit sooner. The Chief Minister added that this is the third year of the campaign, with public participation increasing every year. More than one lakh saplings of various forest species will be planted over the next three days.