PM Modi highlights Ahmedabad tree-planting record in ‘Mann Ki Baat’; Gujarat CM joins public screening

Gandhinagar, July 26 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Ahmedabad’s recent mass tree-planting drive as an example of public participation in environmental conservation during the 136th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on Sunday, with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel joining citizens at a public screening of the broadcast in Gandhinagar.

The programme was screened at the Mahakaleshwar Temple Hall in Sector-1, where CM Patel watched the broadcast while seated among members of the public and youth workers.

Before the screening, the Chief Minister offered prayers at the Mahakaleshwar Temple.

In the broadcast, PM Modi praised the world record achieved in Ahmedabad’s Bhadaj area, where lakhs of saplings were planted within a single hour through collective public participation.

The Prime Minister said the campaign has inspired people from all walks of life to contribute towards protecting nature, adding that collective participation has produced several remarkable achievements.

“People across the country are fulfilling their responsibility towards nature through the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign. When society connects with this sentiment, beautiful and inspiring examples emerge. The incredible power of public participation was witnessed in Ahmedabad. In the Bhadaj area, over 3.5 lakh saplings were planted within a single hour, with more than 25,000 people joining the effort,” PM Modi said.

He noted that the plantation drive witnessed enthusiastic participation from school students, NCC cadets, volunteers and ordinary citizens, adding that the saplings planted today would eventually develop into a dense urban forest. He also said the achievement has found a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.

He urged every citizen to take a pledge to plant one tree to help build a clean, green and sustainable future for coming generations.

Marking ‘Kargil Vijay Diwas’, observed on July 26, the Prime Minister paid tribute to the courage, valour and sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces and defence personnel.

He also spoke about India’s continued progress towards achieving “Atmanirbharta” (self-reliance) in the defence sector.

The Prime Minister further commended the achievements of young Indians in the fields of sports, science and technology, highlighting their contributions to the country’s development.

Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister’s monthly radio programme, serves as a platform to share inspiring stories, innovative initiatives and observations on a wide range of social and national issues with people across the country.

The Chief Minister joined the gathering as the audience listened to the Prime Minister’s address, which focused on environmental conservation, national security and the accomplishments of India’s youth.

“An incredible example of public participation! Respected Prime Minister, in Mann Ki Baat, specially appreciated the ‘Guinness World Record’ created by the citizens of Ahmedabad (Bhadaj) by planting more than 3.5 lakh saplings in just 1 hour. This wonderful effort by more than 25,000 citizens, students, and volunteers will take the shape of a dense urban forest in the coming years. Come, let us all join the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign and make our Earth green and lush,” CM Patel wrote on X.

Among those present at the screening were Gandhinagar City BJP President Dr Ashish Dave, Gandhinagar Mayor Mira Patel, Nagarik Bank Chairman and Municipal Corporator Mahendradas, and office-bearers of the city BJP organisation.

–IANS

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