I-Day: UP to build Vande Mataram Vatika statewide

• UP to establish Vande Mataram Vatikas in all 75 districts on 15 Aug
• 150 saplings per district to mark 150 years of the national song
• Forest Department to lead drive with public and student participation

Lucknow, Aug 13 (PTI) On Independence Day, a ‘Vande Mataram Vatika’ will be established in all 75 districts of Uttar Pradesh to convey a message of patriotism along with environmental protection, an official

statement issued here on Thursday said.

Marking the 150th anniversary of the national song, 150 saplings will be planted in every district under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative. This vatika will be developed through public participation.

Under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, ‘Vande Mataram Vatika’ will be established across all districts on August 15, it said.

“The Forest Department has initiated preparations for this. In each district, 150 saplings will be planted at a designated location, serving as a tribute to nature on the occasion of completing 150 years of the national song Vande Mataram,” the statement said.

The Forest Department will develop the vatika, planting shady, fruit-bearing, and ecologically beneficial species suitable for local conditions. Responsibility for the care of these plants will be assigned locally so that the campaign takes the form of a lasting green heritage.

Divisional Forest Officer of the Awadh Forest Division, Sitanshu Pandey, said, “The Vande Mataram Vatika, which already exists at Kukrail Picnic Spot in Lucknow, will be expanded on Independence Day. An Ashoka Chakra has been constructed here, and Ashoka saplings will be planted on the outer area of its 24 spokes.” He said sapling plantation will be conducted by retired and serving Indian Forest Service officers, as well as representatives from various sections of society.

Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Social Forestry), Deepak Kumar said, “Vande Mataram Vatika is an important link in the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign. This special drive will ensure widespread public participation.” The plantation program will also involve public representatives, students, social groups, the Vande Mataram Foundation/Trust, families of freedom fighters, NCC/NSS and Women Welfare Squads.

The saplings planted on Independence Day will convey a message of patriotism, nature conservation, and community participation to future generations. PTI ABN SHS SHS