On October 29, 2024, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, the Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, spearheaded a significant plantation drive in Cali, Colombia, as part of India’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam (#Plant4Mother)’ initiative. This event coincided with the 16th Meeting of the Conference of Parties (COP 16) to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD).
Held at the University of Valle, the plantation drive witnessed the participation of distinguished guests, including His Excellency Mr. Vanlalhuma, the Indian Ambassador to Colombia, and key figures from the university administration, such as Ms. Mónica García Solarte and Mr. Guillermo Murillo Vargas. The drive was not just a symbolic act but a heartfelt tribute, as participants planted saplings in honor of their mothers, emphasizing the campaign’s core message.
During the event, Minister Singh engaged with students and faculty, urging them to adopt sustainable practices in their everyday lives and highlighting the vital role of youth in environmental conservation. Over 30 participants enthusiastically took part in this initiative, reflecting a shared commitment to promoting a greener future.
Launched on World Environment Day earlier this year by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign merges environmental responsibility with a touching homage to mothers. The campaign began with the planting of a Peepal tree by the Prime Minister himself, marking a significant step in India’s efforts to foster community involvement in environmental stewardship.
Prime Minister Modi has consistently advocated for collective action to enhance environmental health, showcasing India’s progress in expanding forest cover over the last decade. The ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign aligns seamlessly with the country’s goals for sustainable development, aiming to engage citizens worldwide in meaningful ecological initiatives.
This plantation drive in Colombia exemplifies the campaign’s global outreach and underscores India’s commitment to environmental conservation, encouraging nations to participate in protecting and nurturing our planet.