Introduction and Overview

  • 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign stands as a symbol of the holistic commitment of the Ministry of Defence towards environmental sustainability.
  • This campaign was launched on the occasion of World Environment Day 2024 by the Prime Minister of India.
  • The objective of this campaign is to encourage every individual nationwide to plant a tree as a tribute to their respected mothers.
  • On the backdrop of the 78th Independence Day, scheduled on 15th August 2024, the Ministry of Defence has planned to execute a substantial plantation drive across the nation.

"Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" in the Limelight

  • This campaign returns to the spotlight due to the grandiose tree plantation endeavour planned for the 78th Independence Day.
  • The Ministry of Defence aims to plant 15 lakh trees nationwide as part of this campaign.
  • Implementing this initiative will be through the concerted efforts of the three Services, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Defence PSUs, Controller General Defence Accounts (CGDA), National Cadet Corps (NCC), Sainik Schools, and Ordnance factories.

Conclusion: The Significance and Future Endeavours

  • Beyond being a mark of tribute to mothers, the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign underscores the interconnectedness of human actions and the health of the Earth.
  • Such campaigns indicate the direction for future initiatives regarding environment conversation.
  • They pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future while underscoring the importance of individual actions in contributing to the larger collective effort.

Historical Aspects of Tree Plantation Drives in India

  • India has a longstanding history of tree plantation drives as an essential component of environmental conservation initiatives.
  • Several major plantation drives like Van Mahotsav, Chipko Movement have been instrumental in the conservation and restoration of our natural habitats.
  • These initiatives are significant in maintaining ecological balance and combating climate change.

Geographical and Environmental Implications

  • The 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign underlines the importance of a green cover in maintaining the health of the planet.
  • Widespread tree plantation exercises have the potential to significantly improve the percentage of forest cover in India, which is currently nearly 24.56% according to the Forest Survey of India 2019.
  • Efforts like these can greatly contribute towards India's commitment to the Paris Agreement, intending to create an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO2 through increased forest and tree cover by 2030.