Uttar Pradesh launches record 35-crore sapling drive to green the state

Uttar Pradesh is gearing up for its largest tree-planting drive yet, with plans to plant 35 crore saplings during the monsoon season. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has instructed officials to treat the campaign as a festival, encouraging widespread public involvement in the effort. The Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department is leading the initiative, aiming to plant over 15 crore saplings—more than any other department this year. Preparations are already underway, with over 52.44 crore saplings being raised in more than 1,900 nurseries across the state.

The campaign includes several key projects, such as Mission Chhaya, Aviral Dhara Plantation, Sahjan Bhandara, and Mango Bhandara. New specialised forests will also be created, including Maharshi Charak Medicinal Forests, Harmony Forests, Prosperity Forests, Agro Forests, Energy Forests, and Kapi Forests. Farmers registered under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme will play a major role in the drive. A specific focus will be on planting 5.50 lakh saplings along the Ganga Expressway, covering an area of 500 hectares. Over the past nine years, Uttar Pradesh has planted more than 242 crore saplings, setting a strong foundation for this year’s expanded efforts.

The Mega Plantation Campaign-2026 aims to boost green cover and environmental sustainability in the state. With extensive public participation and targeted projects, the drive is expected to make a significant impact on Uttar Pradesh’s landscape.