Environment – Tree Plantation Campaign Highlights Need for Greater Green Cover
Environment – As World Environment Day was observed across the country, leaders of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) participated in large-scale tree plantation activities under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative, a campaign aimed at encouraging citizens to contribute to environmental protection through afforestation.
Concern Over Green Cover Availability
Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh said India is currently facing a significant gap in per-capita green cover, emphasizing the importance of increasing tree plantations to maintain ecological balance. Speaking to reporters, he noted that the country remains below the recommended level of tree-covered land required to support environmental sustainability.
According to Singh, the ideal benchmark for green coverage has not yet been achieved, making public participation in plantation drives increasingly important. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for consistently advocating environmental awareness through campaigns that encourage citizens to plant trees in honor of their mothers.
Focus on Water Conservation and Renewable Energy
During his remarks, the minister also referred to the government’s broader environmental efforts. He highlighted initiatives aimed at water conservation, including Mission Amrit Sarovar, which seeks to improve water storage and strengthen local water resources across the country.
Singh further pointed to the growing challenges posed by carbon emissions and climate-related concerns. He said the government continues to promote renewable energy adoption through programs such as PM Surya, which encourage the use of clean energy solutions. He added that tree plantation efforts under social forestry programs are being expanded to involve greater public participation.
Support for Traditional Artisans
Later in the day, Singh visited a market complex in Delhi’s Vasant Kunj area, where he discussed measures being taken to support India’s artisan community. He said the facility has been developed to provide artisans with opportunities to display and sell their products directly to consumers.
The minister explained that dedicated stalls have been allotted to craftsmen, allowing them to showcase a wide variety of handmade products. Items created by nationally recognized and award-winning artisans are also displayed at the venue, helping increase visibility for traditional crafts.
Direct Benefits Through Sales Platforms
Singh stated that income generated from product sales is transferred directly to the artisans’ bank accounts, ensuring that craftsmen receive the financial benefits of their work without unnecessary intermediaries. He described the initiative as part of a larger effort to strengthen livelihoods within the handicrafts sector.
The minister also stressed the importance of encouraging younger generations to continue traditional craftsmanship while embracing modern technology. According to him, creating opportunities for skill development and innovation will help preserve India’s rich artisan heritage while making it more competitive in contemporary markets.
Expanding Global Reach for Indian Crafts
Highlighting efforts to connect artisans with international buyers, Singh said the government has been using digital platforms and global marketing channels to increase overseas demand for Indian handicrafts. Through various initiatives, artisans are being introduced to customers in foreign markets, helping expand export opportunities.
He also referred to the role of the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH), which supports artisans through trade fairs, international exhibitions, global pavilions, and online marketing initiatives. Product images and catalogs are shared digitally, enabling buyers from countries such as the United States to access and purchase Indian handcrafted goods more easily.