The Uttar Pradesh Forest Department will observe the Seva Parv, from September 17 to October 2, as a ‘Swachh Utsav,’ focusing on environmental conservation and cleanliness.
The fortnight-long campaign will include a range of activities such as cleanliness drives, anti-single-use plastic initiatives, weed removal in bird sanctuaries, and public awareness programs on environmental protection, rainwater harvesting, and water conservation.
State Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Sunil Chaudhary, has instructed officials across all levels to ensure the successful implementation of the campaign. To oversee the campaign initiative, Sushant Sharma, Secretary of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, has been appointed as the government nodal officer, while Ramkumar, Additional PCCF (Projects), will serve as the departmental nodal officer.
In a statement on Sunday, Principal chief conservator of forests, Sunil Chaudhary, said, “On September 25, the birth anniversary of Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya, plantation drives will be held across all districts. The Forest Department will provide saplings to citizens, institutions, and educational bodies. A one-hour mega event will unite departments, public representatives, students, NGOs, civic groups, panchayat members, industrialists, medical associations, and partner volunteers such as Tiger Mitras, Sarus Mitras, and Wetland Mitras.”
Deepak Kumar, Mission Director of Plantation Mega Campaign-2025, informed that during the Seva Parv, 15 lakh saplings will be planted across the state. The initiative will be inaugurated on September 17.
At least 100 plants will be planted in each of the 34 Nagar Vans. Public participation, voluntary organizations, schools, eco clubs, self-help groups, and civil society will also contribute during the drive. In consultation with District Magistrates, Urban Development, and other departments, sites will be selected for the drive. Plantation campaigns will be prioritized in urban areas, river catchments, and pond banks.
The department has also emphasized the importance of innovation across districts, encouraging the organization of street plays and cultural programs to generate enthusiasm and awareness among the people.
The plantation drive will be graced by mayors, MPs, MLAs, and other public representatives, underscoring the collective effort to safeguard the environment.