New Delhi, 19 February 2026: The A.P. Shinde Symposium Hall at NASC Complex, Pusa Campus, New Delhi, witnessed a significant environmental milestone today as the nation commemorated five years of the ‘One Sapling a Day’ initiative led by Hon’ble Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan. The event marked half a decade of a sustained green movement that has inspired millions across the country to contribute to environmental conservation through daily tree plantation.
Launched with the vision of encouraging individual responsibility towards nature, the ‘One Sapling a Day’ initiative has evolved into a people’s movement, emphasizing the importance of ecological balance, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience. Over the past five years, the initiative has mobilized communities, educational institutions, farmers, youth groups, and civil society organizations to actively participate in plantation drives and environmental awareness campaigns.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan reflected on the journey of the initiative and reiterated the government’s commitment to sustainable development. He emphasized that planting a sapling is not merely an act of environmental service but a pledge to future generations. “Every sapling planted is a step towards securing clean air, conserving water, and combating climate change. It is our collective responsibility to nurture these saplings into trees that will safeguard our planet,” he stated.
The commemorative event highlighted key achievements of the initiative, including widespread participation from rural and urban communities, integration with ongoing agricultural and afforestation programs, and the adoption of innovative monitoring mechanisms to ensure the survival and growth of planted saplings. Success stories from various states showcased how the movement has contributed to improving green cover, restoring degraded lands, and enhancing local livelihoods.
The program also featured presentations by environmental experts and stakeholders who discussed the broader significance of community-led afforestation efforts in achieving India’s climate goals. Emphasis was placed on the role of youth and educational institutions in sustaining the momentum of the movement.
As the initiative enters its sixth year, the focus will be on strengthening post-plantation care, leveraging technology for geo-tagging and monitoring, and expanding partnerships with local bodies and voluntary organizations. The Minister urged citizens to continue embracing environmentally responsible practices and to make tree plantation a lifelong habit.
The commemoration concluded with a renewed pledge to protect and preserve nature, reaffirming that collective action remains the cornerstone of environmental sustainability. The ‘One Sapling a Day’ initiative stands as a testament to the power of individual commitment in driving national transformation towards a greener and more resilient India.
