Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh is set to create a new benchmark in environmental conservation by planting 35 crore saplings in a single day on July 12 under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, chief minister Yogi Adityanath announced on Monday.Addressing ministers, MPs, MLAs, mayors, panchayat representatives and urban local body members through a video conference, the chief minister called for mass public participation in the Vriksharopan Mahabhiyan-2026 and directed elected representatives to complete preparations within two days.Quoting the Sanskrit phrase “Mata Bhumih Putro’ham Prithivyah” (The Earth is my mother and I am her son), Yogi said the plantation drive reflects India’s tradition of respecting and protecting nature. The campaign will run across the state from 7 am to 6 pm on July 12, involving government departments, public representatives, voluntary organisations and citizens. The proposed plantation would strengthen the state’s leadership in environmental conservation, he said.
