Chandigarh (Balwinder Singh): Haryana Forest and Environment Minister Rao Narbir Singh has urged residents of the state to plant at least two saplings on the occasion of the 12th International Yoga Day on June 21, emphasizing that trees are among the most valuable gifts that can be passed on to future generations.
The minister said environmental conservation requires active participation from every citizen and called upon people to contribute towards building a greener and more sustainable Haryana through plantation drives and long-term care of trees.
Highlighting the importance of trees, Rao Narbir Singh said they function like the lungs of the planet by providing oxygen essential for human survival. He noted that the relationship between humans and trees extends throughout life, as they provide oxygen, food and shade, while continuing to serve society in various forms even after their lifespan.
The minister stressed that environmental protection cannot be achieved through government efforts alone and requires the active involvement of social organizations, voluntary groups and citizens. He expressed satisfaction over the widespread participation witnessed across Haryana during World Environment Day celebrations, saying it reflected the growing public commitment towards sustainable development.
Rao Narbir Singh said people across the state had embraced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2’ campaign and collectively pledged to contribute to environmental conservation through tree plantation activities.
Referring to upcoming events, the minister noted that the 12th International Yoga Day and the completion of 12 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s public life fall in the same month. To mark the occasion, he encouraged citizens to undertake plantation drives at multiple locations and spread awareness about environmental protection.
He also highlighted the significance of the annual Van Mahotsav celebrations held in July and urged people to plant saplings during the monsoon season. Stressing the importance of long-term care, he said planted saplings should be protected and nurtured for at least five years to ensure their successful growth into mature trees.
The minister further highlighted the Haryana Government’s environmental initiatives, including the budgetary provision of a ₹100 crore Green Climate Resilience Fund. According to him, the fund will support projects related to zero-emission vehicles, renewable energy, energy efficiency, water conservation, urban greening, climate-resilient agriculture and nature-based solutions.
He said the fund would play a crucial role in addressing challenges such as air and water pollution while encouraging innovation-driven investments in environmental protection and sustainable development.
Rao Narbir Singh stated that the enthusiastic participation of citizens in World Environment Day programmes and the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign demonstrates Haryana’s commitment not only to economic growth but also to environmentally sustainable and green development.
He added that the growing awareness among citizens is helping strengthen the state’s efforts to create a cleaner, greener and more climate-resilient future.
