Delhi’s plantation drive received a significant boost on Monday with the planting of 1,000 mango saplings at the BSF camp in Chhawla. The large-scale drive, held under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, was led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, who planted a sapling as part of the ongoing ‘Green Delhi’ mission.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Gupta said the initiative reflected Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to environmental protection and respect for motherhood, adding that it would play a key role in achieving the mission’s objectives.
Calling the day “historic,” she noted that 1,000 mango saplings were planted at the BSF camp, contributing to a total of 100,000 saplings planted across Delhi in a single day.
Addressing BSF personnel, Gupta stressed that the initiative was not just about planting trees but about investing in the city’s environment, air quality, and the well-being of future generations. These saplings, she said, would grow into shade-giving trees that help purify the capital’s air.
Praising the BSF in a post on X, she wrote: “I salute the brave soldiers of the Border Security Force, whose sacrifice, dedication, and service have strengthened the foundation of nation-building. Today, as they protect our borders while also contributing to this green mission, the campaign becomes even more meaningful.”
The Chief Minister also raised concerns over the acute drinking water shortage faced by BSF personnel at the camp, calling it unacceptable that soldiers “who never hesitate to shed blood for the nation” should be deprived of such a basic necessity. She blamed the previous government for failing to lay a water pipeline and assured immediate action to ensure regular supply.
The event was attended by Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh, BSF Inspector General Sanjay Gaur, DIG P.S. Bhatti, and several BSF personnel.