PIONEER NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced that over five lakh saplings will be planted in a single day across the State on Harela this year. The target is to plant three lakh saplings in the Garhwal region and two lakh saplings in the Kumaon region. He shared these details while extending Harela wishes to the residents of the State.
Dhami said the Harela festival is a symbol of happiness, prosperity and harmony, highlighting its significance in staying connected to cultural traditions. He emphasised that the festival serves as an inspiration to care for the environment and Earth. Dhami stated that tree plantation and environmental conservation are crucial for providing a clean and healthy environment for future generations.
Uttarakhand is renowned for its religion, spirituality and culture. This natural beauty and biodiversity attract everyone, increasing collective responsibility toward environmental conservation. He underscored the importance of making continuous efforts to revive and protect water sources, rivers and ghats. According to him, folk festivals are integral to the cultural heritage.
Dhami said that, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, this year’s plantation campaign will be conducted on a large scale throughout the State under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative, coinciding with the Harela festival. Plantation activities will take place in public areas, forests, rivers, ghats and other sites, ensuring the involvement of local public representatives, students, departmental personnel, NCC, NSS and the general public, he said.
He added that events will be organised throughout the month as part of this festival to ensure the participation of villagers, school students and various departments in making the plantation campaign successful. The CM urged all citizens to plant as many trees as possible to contribute to environmental protection. He emphasised the importance of public participation in this effort and appealed for cooperation from all social organisations and institutions.
