Jhunjhunu/Jaipur: Chief minister Bhajan Lal Sharma Sunday launched a massive statewide green drive, declaring the goal to plant 50 crore trees in five years under the Mission Hariyalo Rajasthan. Addressing a large public gathering at the district-level Van Mahotsav held at Mandawara village in Sikar, the chief minister reiterated his govt’s commitment to turning Rajasthan into a greener and more prosperous state.The campaign takes inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, launched last year on World Environment Day, and is now gaining momentum across the state. Sharma said that 10 crore saplings will be planted this year alone through public participation. He added that a record 2.5 crore saplings will be planted in a single day on the occasion of Hariyali Teej.“Last year, we planted over seven crore saplings. PM Modi appreciated our efforts in his Mann Ki Baat. Our work was blessed by nature too, with rains filling dams across the state,” said Sharma. He also underlined how the state is reviving the traditional reverence for nature, recalling the legacy of Amrita Devi, who sacrificed her life with her daughters to save trees in the 18th century.The CM also announced the establishment of 22 Urban Forests (Nagar Vans) across the state with support from the central govt, with proposals for 18 more already sent. These urban green spaces aim to improve air quality and provide natural havens in densely populated towns.To preserve biodiversity, the state is implementing the One District One Species program, promoting native flora. Under the Aravalli Green Development Project, ₹250 crore is being spent in 19 Aravalli districts to carry out soil works over 3,700 hectares, followed by plantation next year. Special efforts are also being made to green desert districts like Barmer and Jaisalmer.CM Sharma emphasized that the role of every citizen is vital in protecting the environment. “Planting a tree in your mother’s name is not just a gesture—it’s a movement that can define our future,” he said.
