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UP govt targets planting 3.5 billion saplings in a single day; CM reviews preps
The Uttar Pradesh government announced a statewide afforestation push aiming to plant 3.5 billion saplings in one day, with plans for large-scale planting along the Ganga Expressway and other corridors. The CM directed departments to prepare action plans by May 30, while highlighting Ramayana-linked saplings in Ayodhya and memorial plantings for martyrs and freedom fighters. Historical sapling planting and green-cover gains are cited, along with targets to raise green cover in coming decades.
Why It Matters
The plan signals a major expansion of state-level afforestation efforts and long-term targets for green cover, indicating a shift toward climate mitigation and biodiversity objectives in Uttar Pradesh.
Timeline
5 Events
Saplings planted, 2017–2025 period; green cover gains
2017–2025
Officials said the figure rose to over 2.42 billion saplings planted between 2017 and 2025. In the same period, forest and tree cover increased by 338,000 acres, taking the state's green cover to 9.96 per cent of land area.
Saplings planted, 2009–2016 period
2009–2016
Officials said between 2009 and 2016, 514.8 million saplings were planted in the state.
Targets to increase green cover by 2030 and 2047
May 3, 2026
The chief minister set targets to increase green cover to 15 per cent by 2030 and 20 per cent by 2047, directing all departments to prepare detailed action plans by May 30.
Ayodhya to host Ramayana-linked saplings and memorial plantings
May 3, 2026
During the meeting, officials said saplings of trees associated with the Ramayan will be planted in Ayodhya, and forests and groves will be developed in the names of martyrs and freedom fighters.
UP govt targets planting 3.5 billion saplings in a single day
May 3, 2026
In Lucknow, an official statement said the Uttar Pradesh government aims to plant 3.5 billion saplings in a single day this year as part of a statewide afforestation drive. The plan includes large-scale plantation along both sides of the Ganga Expressway, with preparations to plant 43.5 million saplings along rivers and highways. The government reiterated the slogan 'Plant trees, protect trees'.