Shivraj Singh Chouhan Unveils 'Vriksh Mitra Abhiyan' to Boost India's Green Mission

New Delhi, July 13, 2026 Environmental conservation took centre stage as Union Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched the 'Vriksh Mitra Abhiyan', an initiative designed to transform tree plantation into a nationwide public movement. Addressing nearly 17,000 'Vriksh Mitra' volunteers during the Environment Protection Resolve Programme and Vriksh Mitra Samvad at the Pusa Complex in New Delhi, Chouhan called upon every citizen to plant at least one tree every year and encourage five others to become part of the campaign. The programme was attended by environmental experts, researchers and volunteers from across the country, with thousands joining virtually. Describing climate change as a serious challenge for humanity, Chouhan said environmental protection should become a way of life rather than a one-time activity. He stressed that families should plant trees on occasions such as birthdays, wedding anniversaries, the birth of a child and in memory of parents, turning these moments into "Tree Festivals." He also proposed the creation of a 'Vriksh Mitra Parivar' with organisational units from the national level to villages, while suggesting dedicated plantation sites in panchayats and urban local bodies. The Minister announced that a nationwide plantation drive would be held on Hariyali Amavasya on August 12, expressing hope that the day would evolve into a national Tree Festival. Highlighting that tree plantation must be accompanied by proper care and protection, Chouhan linked environmental conservation with the future of Indian agriculture. He underlined the importance of conserving water resources, restoring soil fertility and promoting balanced farming practices, while cautioning against the excessive use of chemicals and the unchecked exploitation of natural resources. He also urged citizens to adopt Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) by conserving water and energy, reducing plastic use, segregating waste and embracing environmentally responsible habits. Environmentalist Anil Joshi described the initiative as a long-term movement and said IIT researchers are studying its environmental impact, while Dr. Anoop Hazela advocated the concept of "Plant One Tree, Adopt One Tree" to strengthen public participation. Expressing confidence in the power of collective action, Chouhan said the success of the 'Vriksh Mitra Abhiyan' would depend on sustained public participation and community ownership. He said the initiative has the potential to strengthen India's environmental movement while contributing to a greener, healthier and more sustainable future for generations to come.