A standout achievement came in Varanasi’s Sujabad Domri on Sunday, where locals planted 251,446 saplings in one hour, eclipsing China’s eight-year-old Guinness record of 153,981 trees set in Henan province. This modern ‘urban forest’ over 350 bighas has put India on the world map.

The momentum began in 2017 when CM Yogi took charge, prioritizing greenery. Massive single-day campaigns, like the 37.21 crore plantings on July 9 last year, highlight the scale. PM Modi’s praise for the ‘One Tree for Mother’ campaign further fueled efforts.

Looking ahead, 2026’s monsoon season targets 35 crore trees, backed by robust budgets: Rs 800 crore for community forestry, substantial funds for nurseries and restoration projects. Innovative programs include gifting saplings to parents of 18,348 babies born in early July 2025, complete with Green Gold Certificates.

To achieve 15% forest cover by 2030, the forest department is mobilizing communities through 15,000+ Green Chaupals in villages. These monthly gatherings, led by village heads, ensure widespread participation. Yogi’s hands-on approach—from pre-campaign meetings to field plantings—has made UP a model for environmental stewardship.