kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; Kolkata, June 5: World Environment Day, the state government on Friday launched an ambitious year-long tree plantation campaign aimed at promoting environmental conservation and increasing green cover across the state. The initiative was formally inaugurated by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari at Nalban in Salt Lake, where he participated in a plantation programme and called for collective efforts to protect nature and build a sustainable future.

The central theme of this year’s campaign is “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2026” (One Tree in the Name of Mother 2026), an initiative designed to encourage citizens to plant trees as a tribute to their mothers while contributing to environmental preservation. The programme seeks to combine ecological responsibility with a personal and emotional connection, motivating greater public participation in afforestation activities.

The inauguration ceremony held at Nalban, the Chief Minister planted saplings to mark the beginning of the campaign. Several senior ministers, legislators, and top government officials were present during the event. Among those in attendance were ministers Shankar Ghosh and Sharadwat Mukhopadhyay, legislators Piyush Kanoria and Locket Chatterjee, Chief Secretary Manoj Agarwal, the Chief Minister’s Advisor Subrata Gupta, along with other senior administrative officials.

The tree plantation programme, the Chief Minister also released fish fingerlings into the Nalban water body, highlighting the importance of preserving aquatic ecosystems alongside forest and green resources. The activity was seen as part of a broader environmental conservation effort aimed at maintaining ecological balance and protecting natural habitats.

The occasion of World Environment Day, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari also shared a message through the social media platform X, urging citizens to take meaningful steps toward environmental protection. In his message, he emphasized the need for collective action to safeguard the planet and promote sustainable living practices.

“This World Environment Day, let us pledge to protect our Earth, care for nature, and adopt sustainable habits for a greener and healthier future. We must plant more trees, reduce pollution, and conserve our natural resources for future generations,” the Chief Minister stated.

The government’s year-long plantation programme is expected to involve various departments, local bodies, educational institutions, community organizations, and citizens across the state. Officials believe that widespread participation will help increase forest cover, improve air quality, and strengthen environmental awareness among people of all age groups.

The initiative also reflects growing concerns about climate change, environmental degradation, and the need for sustainable development. By encouraging tree plantation and conservation efforts throughout the year, the state government aims to contribute to long-term ecological sustainability while inspiring citizens to play an active role in protecting the environment.

World Environment Day was observed across the state through various awareness campaigns and green initiatives, the launch of the plantation drive at Nalban underscored the government's commitment to environmental stewardship and its vision of creating a greener, cleaner, and healthier future for generations to come.