Odisha to Plant 75 Lakh Trees on PM Modi’s 75th Birthday

Bhubaneswar: In a sweeping gesture of gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 75th birthday, the Odisha government will plant 75 lakh saplings across the state on September 17 under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced the initiative, calling it “a people’s gift to the PM” in recognition of his commitment to Odisha’s development.

The campaign, launched by Modi in 2023, promotes environmental awareness through mass tree plantation. Its second edition runs from June 5 to September 30, with Odisha aiming to plant 7.5 crore saplings this year.

Last year, Odisha exceeded its target by planting 6.72 crore trees, ranking fourth nationally.

This year’s drive will involve panchayats, schools, colleges, self-help groups, NGOs, and government departments. The Information and Public Relations Department has been tasked with launching a statewide awareness campaign.

Majhi emphasized that planting is only the beginning and ensuring survival of the saplings is key. Suggested species include Neem, Arjun, Peepal, Kadamba, and Amla, suitable for group forests, roadside plantations, and individual efforts