Gujarat has set a target to plant over 5.51 crore saplings across 74,453 hectares in this year’s ‘Van Mahotsav’ campaign. The state Forest Department plans to distribute about 11.80 crore saplings through its 423 government nurseries to enhance green cover and promote public involvement in afforestation.
Government nurseries in all districts have readied saplings of various species, which will be offered to citizens, local bodies, and organizations at affordable rates. Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia mentioned that the nursery network is equipped to cater to the demands of various stakeholders in the state.
As part of its afforestation strategy, the Forest Department is expanding its Van Kavach program, focusing on creating micro forests. This year, they aim to establish Van Kavach sites at around 300 locations covering about 440 hectares. The state has also outlined targets for the ‘Green Wall of Aravalli’ project, with plantation initiatives planned across 6,652 hectares and mangrove plantation over 20,100 hectares.
Residents and beneficiaries have praised the program for its environmental advantages and the accessibility of affordable planting materials. Nitin Patel from Banaskantha highlighted the increasing importance of such initiatives due to rising global temperatures. Mayur, a young farmer from Deesa, appreciated the wide variety of saplings available at reasonable prices in government nurseries.
Van Mahotsav is an annual event aimed at promoting tree plantation and environmental conservation through public engagement. The state government believes that the increased plantation goals and expanded sapling distribution network will contribute to long-term efforts to boost Gujarat’s green cover.
