G. Kishan Reddy Launches Vriksharopan Abhiyan 2024, Plants 1 Million Saplings

The Vriksharopan Abhiyan 2024 represents a significant milestone in the journey towards environmental sustainability and ecological restoration.

Union Minister of Coal and Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, inaugurated the Vriksharopan Abhiyan (VA) 2024 at Bharat Coking Coal Limited in Dhanbad today, as part of the "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" campaign launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The event, held on July 25, 2024, saw simultaneous celebrations at about 300 locations across 47 districts in 11 coal and lignite-bearing states, facilitated through video conferencing.

Minister Reddy lauded the efforts of the Coal Ministry and Coal/Lignite Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), which successfully planted and distributed approximately 1 million saplings across various coalfields during the VA 2024. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Dhanbad MP Shri Dulu Mahato, Secretary of the Ministry of Coal Shri Amrit Lal Meena, and Chairman of Coal India Limited, along with other senior officials.

The initiative marks a continuation of the PSUs' commitment to environmental sustainability. Over the past five years, the coal and lignite PSUs have planted 24 million saplings across 10,942 hectares of land in and around coalfields. This effort underscores their dedication to combating climate change, reducing carbon footprints, and fostering a healthier environment.

Looking forward, the PSUs have ambitious plans for the next five years, aiming to cover 15,350 hectares with green cover. This fiscal year alone, they target to cover 2,600 hectares and are employing innovative techniques such as the Miyawaki method, seed balls, and drone technology to enhance their reforestation efforts and optimize resources.

The Vriksharopan Abhiyan 2024 represents a significant milestone in the journey towards environmental sustainability and ecological restoration. The massive plantation drive is aligned with the Ministry of Coal's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, focusing on creating carbon sinks and improving air and water quality to enhance community well-being.

This initiative reflects a collective commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development. As coal companies continue their afforestation efforts, they are paving the way for a future where economic growth harmonizes with ecological preservation, contributing to the vision of achieving net-zero targets and promoting biodiversity.