Target is 70 lakh saplings : CM on 75th Van Mahotsav
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR

Imphal, July 23 2024: Mass tree plantation programmes are underway as part of the State's plan to plant 70 lakh saplings this year, said Chief Minister N Biren Singh as he attended the 75th Van Mahotsav 2024 at Chungphu Sabi Lairembi Ching, Lamlai in Imphal East.

Speaking on the occasion, N Biren highlighted the theme of the event, "Ek Ped: Maa ke Naam", and applauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his innovative idea.

He encouraged people to plant trees in the name of their mothers and contribute towards fighting climate change.

Planting trees in the name of mother will encourage people to care for the plant and ensure their growth.

It will also enhance human bonding with plants, he added.

Target is 70 lakh saplings : CM on 75th Van Mahotsav

Talking about the need for mass tree plantation, he said, "We need nature to survive but nature doesn't need us" .

There have been many instances of saplings dying because of lack of proper care.

"This time, we must ensure that the trees we plant survive and grow," he said.

Global warming and climate change leads to natural calamities.

Even Saudi Arabia, a country that is characterised by desert climate, has experienced floods.

Flood in Assam has taken the lives of many people, he said, stating planting more trees and encouraging afforestation could mitigate climate change.

N Biren further stated that mass tree plantation programmes are being conducted, and the State is targeting to plant around 70 lakh saplings by September 2024 .

He also spoke about some developmental projects and added steps will be taken up to facilitate drinking water to every household in Lamlai Assembly Constituency.

He said a developmental project worth Rs 24 crore that includes drainage systems is being prepared for Lamlai AC and it will get sanctioned soon.

While the State is planning to develop 11 football grounds of International standards, one is being developed in Lamlai AC worth Rs 8 crore, he said.

Speaking on the occasion, Forest, Environment & Climate Change Minister Thongam Biswajit Singh said 140 crore tree saplings will be planted under the "Ek Ped: Maa Ke Naam" across the country.

Van Mahotsav is being observed to spread awareness among the students, youth and masses to protect, conserve and preserve the forest.

He encouraged the public to plant more trees.

Fisheries Minister Heikham Dingo Singh, Chairman Hill Area Committee Dinganglung Gangmei, MLAs, officials of Forest Department, students, and residents of Lamlai attended the event.