In a grand gesture of environmental stewardship, Odisha has announced plans to commemorate Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday by planting an impressive 75 lakh saplings. The event, slated for September 17, 2025, will mark a significant milestone in the state’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability. This article delves into the details of the event, its significance, and the broader implications of such a large-scale plantation drive.
Odisha to Celebrate PM Modi’s 75th Birthday
| Key Detail | Data/Stat |
|---|---|
| Event Date | September 17, 2025 |
| Total Saplings to be Planted | 75 Lakh (7.5 million) |
| Campaign Name | ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ (One Tree, In the Name of Mother) |
| Phase Duration | June 5 – September 30, 2025 |
| Focus | Climate-resilient and fruit-bearing trees |
| Involvement | Government, PSUs, NGOs, youth, educational institutions |
| Official Source | Odisha Government |
The initiative falls under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, which is a part of the Odisha government’s ongoing efforts to enhance the state’s green cover. By focusing on planting trees that are resilient to climate change and offer community benefits (like fruit-bearing varieties), this massive plantation drive aims to make a lasting impact on the environment.
While the 75 lakh saplings to be planted are a notable feature of this event, it’s essential to understand how this initiative fits into the larger environmental objectives of the state and the country. This article breaks down everything you need to know, from the motivations behind the campaign to the practical details of tree planting, its broader benefits, and how it all ties into the larger environmental context in India.
The Odisha 75 Lakh Sapling Plantation Drive is an ambitious yet essential initiative to enhance the state’s environmental health while celebrating Prime Minister Modi’s 75th birthday. This effort brings together the state government, local communities, and organizations, showing how collective action can make a substantial impact. By planting a wide variety of climate-resilient and fruit-bearing trees, Odisha is contributing to India’s green future, combating climate change, and creating a legacy for future generations.
As we all work toward making the planet greener, efforts like these remind us of the power of small, community-driven actions in addressing global challenges.
The Significance of the 75 Lakh Sapling Drive
Why 75 Lakh Trees?
The number 75 carries symbolic weight in this context. Prime Minister Modi’s 75th birthday serves as a symbolic milestone, not just for him personally, but for the country. The 75 lakh saplings represent a fitting tribute to the Prime Minister’s continuous efforts toward environmental preservation and his deep-rooted commitment to the cause of sustainability. This initiative is a part of India’s broader vision to combat climate change, promote green spaces, and preserve biodiversity.
The 75 lakh saplings will be planted across Odisha in a wide variety of locations, from urban to rural areas. This diversity of locations ensures that the benefits of the plantation will be widespread, not just limited to a particular area of the state.
What Types of Trees Will Be Planted?
The focus of this drive will be on climate-resilient and fruit-bearing trees. These species not only help enhance green cover but also contribute to the local ecosystem by providing food sources for wildlife and improving air quality. The selected species include:
- Neem: Known for its medicinal properties and strong resilience to drought.
- Karanj: A fast-growing tree that contributes to soil fertility.
- Tentuli: Produces small, sweet fruits enjoyed by many in Odisha.
- Arjun: Known for its use in traditional medicine and its ability to thrive in various soil types.
- Amla: The Indian gooseberry, known for its health benefits, especially in traditional remedies.
- Peepal: Sacred in many cultures, this tree is also known for its air-purifying qualities.
The choice of these species reflects not only environmental priorities but also community interests, especially with fruit-bearing trees that can benefit local populations.
The Green Revolution in Odisha: What’s Behind It?
The Push for Green Cover
Odisha has a long history of promoting environmental sustainability. The state government has always taken pride in its green initiatives. This latest push is in line with the national government’s broader campaign to combat climate change through large-scale environmental programs. These efforts have not only helped preserve forests but also created green jobs and boosted the local economy.
In fact, Odisha has consistently exceeded its planting targets in previous years. For example, in 2024, the state surpassed its target by planting over 6.72 crore saplings, securing a strong position nationally for its contribution to the Green India Mission. This year’s target of 75 lakh trees represents a further strengthening of Odisha’s commitment to being a leader in environmental conservation.
Collaborative Efforts for Success
One of the key aspects of the Odisha plantation drive is the involvement of a wide array of stakeholders. It’s not just the government agencies driving the initiative; local NGOs, youth organizations, and educational institutions will all play an essential role. Through collective action, the government hopes to make the campaign not just a success in terms of tree numbers but also a community effort that gets the people involved in environmental protection. The collaborative nature of this campaign highlights the importance of community-based action in addressing global challenges like climate change.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Plantation Drive
Here’s a breakdown of how the plantation drive is set to unfold:
1. Pre-Plantation Preparations
- Planning and Mapping: The first step is to map out areas across the state where the saplings will be planted. This involves assessing land availability, soil conditions, and the local climate.
- Sapling Procurement: The next step is to ensure that the saplings are ready. The government will work closely with nurseries to ensure the saplings are healthy and strong, with a focus on native species.
2. Engaging Stakeholders
- Government Agencies: Key departments like the Forest, Environment, and Agriculture Departments will oversee the distribution and planting of saplings.
- NGOs & Volunteers: Non-governmental organizations and volunteers will assist in the plantation, especially in remote and rural areas.
- Educational Institutions: Schools and universities will get involved, educating students about environmental conservation and involving them in tree planting.
3. The Planting Day (September 17, 2025)
- Official Ceremony: The event will kick off with a large ceremony featuring officials, volunteers, and members of the public.
- Tree Planting: The actual planting of trees will take place in designated areas. Schools, colleges, and local organizations will each be responsible for planting a certain number of trees.
4. Post-Plantation Care
- Maintenance: After planting, it’s crucial to care for the saplings. Government agencies will monitor the survival rates of the saplings, ensuring they receive the necessary water, fertilizer, and protection from pests.
- Awareness Campaign: Along with tree planting, an awareness campaign will be launched to highlight the benefits of trees and the importance of maintaining them.
The Bigger Picture: How This Initiative Ties into India’s Green Mission
The Odisha tree plantation drive is more than just a local event; it is part of a larger national movement to enhance India’s green cover and meet international environmental goals. Under the Green India Mission, India has committed to increasing its forest cover and reducing its carbon emissions, and this drive aligns perfectly with those objectives.
In addition, the plantation drive contributes to India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), which emphasizes sustainable forestry, renewable energy, and waste management.
India’s commitment to sustainability is crucial to meeting the Paris Agreement targets for climate change, and Odisha’s efforts are an essential piece of the puzzle.
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FAQs
Why are climate-resilient trees important?
Climate-resilient trees are specifically chosen for their ability to thrive in harsh conditions, such as droughts or floods. These trees help mitigate the effects of climate change by adapting to changing weather patterns and contributing to biodiversity.
Can I get involved in the plantation drive?
Yes! The Odisha government encourages community involvement in the plantation drive. Local volunteers, schools, and NGOs are always welcome to participate in the efforts to plant and care for saplings.
How will the success of the plantation drive be measured?
Success will be measured by both the number of saplings planted and their survival rate. Monitoring and post-planting care will be crucial to ensuring the trees grow and thrive.
