Delhi Marks World Nature Conservation Day with Large-Scale Plantation Campaign

On the occasion of World Nature Conservation Day, more than 430 students and teachers from five schools participated in a tree plantation drive at the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary on Tuesday, reaffirming the Delhi government's commitment to environmental conservation, according to an official. Delhi's Environment, Forest and Wildlife Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said the participants planted saplings as part of the Delhi government's ambitious mission to expand the Capital's green cover while encouraging environmental awareness among the younger generation. He said that young people have a crucial role in shaping Delhi's greener future. Describing students as ambassadors of environmental conservation, Sirsa said they inspire their families and communities to actively contribute towards making Delhi a cleaner, greener and world-class city. He further stated that through sustained public participation, the Delhi government remains committed to creating a healthier, greener and more environmentally resilient Capital for future generations. The plantation campaign is part of the Delhi government's year-long initiative to plant 70 lakh trees and saplings across the city. Sirsa said the initiative draws inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's nationwide campaign, "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam," which links environmental responsibility with a heartfelt tribute to mothers. Highlighting the scale of the campaign, the minister said the target of planting 70 lakh trees and saplings this year reflects the government's firm commitment to securing Delhi's environmental future. He added that the initiative has evolved into a people's movement, with enthusiastic participation from members of the judiciary, government officials, diplomats from more than 70 countries, educational institutions, religious organisations and citizens from all walks of life. Sirsa also said that a scientific approach to afforestation has been adopted under the campaign. Every sapling planted will be geo-tagged and monitored regularly to improve its long-term survival rate. He further informed that a comprehensive 10-year plantation strategy has been prepared to enhance Delhi's green cover. The plan focuses on planting native species that provide greater shade, generate more oxygen, require less water and play an important role in reducing pollution. According to the minister, scientific monitoring through geo-tagging will help ensure accountability and improve the survival rate of every sapling planted under the initiative.