Van Mahotsav, which means "Forest Festival," is an annual tree planting festival celebrated across India to spread awareness about the importance of forests and the urgent need to increase the green cover in the country. This initiative has become especially significant in recent years due to growing concerns over climate change, deforestation, and environmental degradation.
Celebration at Okhla Bird Sanctuary
A recent example of this commitment to environmental conservation was seen at the Okhla Bird Sanctuary in Noida. On Wednesday (June 02, 2025), the Gautam Budh Nagar district administration organized a plantation drive under the banner of "Van Mahotsav." The event aimed to promote environmental awareness and encourage tree plantation among citizens. This event was held under the broader mission called "Green Mission 2025."
The programme was inaugurated jointly by state and district officials and included the launch of a plantation drive. The Uttar Pradesh government has set a target to plant over 9 lakh saplings across the district during the Monsoon season. This effort is a part of a larger goal to combat environmental challenges such as pollution, global warming, and loss of biodiversity.
Active Participation and Public Awareness
The chief guest at the event, KP Malik, Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, planted a “rudraksha” sapling to mark the occasion. He emphasized that protecting the environment is no longer a matter of choice but a responsibility for every citizen. Tree plantation, he said, plays a key role in restoring ecological balance and fighting climate-related issues.
In order to spread awareness among the general public, a publicity van was also flagged off. This van will travel across the district to highlight the importance of environmental care and encourage more people to participate in such campaigns.
District magistrate Manish Kumar Verma also urged citizens to plant at least one tree in memory of their mothers. He called this year’s plantation campaign a “mega mission” and urged people to treat it as a collective social and moral duty.
Contributions from Various Departments and NGOs
The event also saw the participation of several other dignitaries including Isha Tiwari, Ghaziabad Divisional Director, and Arshi Malik, Hapur Divisional Forest Officer. Representatives from various departments and NGOs such as She-Wing were also present, showcasing a strong collaboration between the government and civil society.
Insightful Take
Van Mahotsav is more than just a plantation drive. It is a symbol of India’s commitment to safeguarding nature and combating the effects of climate change. By encouraging citizens to plant trees and take care of their local environment, the festival fosters a sense of responsibility and unity. The success of such campaigns depends on active participation from people across all sections of society. Only then can we hope to build a greener, healthier and more sustainable future for the coming generations.
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