RAIPUR,CG: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Thursday launched the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign on Thursday, aimed at promoting environmental protection and greenery across the state.

As part of the initiative, Chief Minister Sai planted a ‘Dahiman’ sapling at his residential office premises in Raipur. The Chief Minister urged the people of the state to plant saplings in honour of their mothers. The Dahiman plant, abundant in the Surguja region, is known for its medicinal properties beneficial in treating various diseases.

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi has encouraged citizens to plant trees dedicated to their mothers. A state-level ‘Van Mahotsav’ is scheduled for July 11 in Chhattisgarh, during which 70 lakh saplings will be planted.

To ensure the success of the plantation drive and safeguard planted areas, public representatives will adopt plantation sites. Under the campaign, people can also plant saplings in the honor of their deities according to their religious beliefs. Besides forested areas, saplings will be planted along roadsides and in public spaces.

To boost green cover and promote environmental conservation in Chhattisgarh, the Forest Department is planting over 3,95,85,000 saplings through various schemes, including 2,82,35,000 saplings under the 'Kisan Vriksha Mitra Yojana'. The state has already planted more than 1.25 crore saplings, aiming for target completion by the end of July.

Minister Lakhan Lal Dewangan, officials from various departments, and school children were also present.