The administration in Amritsar has set an ambitious target of planting 6.50 lakh saplings across the district to commemorate the 650th Prakash Purb of Guru Ravidas. The initiative integrates the spiritual observance with a significant environmental conservation effort, involving various government departments and aiming to foster a greener future.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the campaign involves the systematic planting of saplings in public spaces throughout the district. Deputy Commissioner Dalwinderjit Singh highlighted that officials are actively identifying suitable locations, including common village lands, urban parks, educational institutions, government and private offices, hospitals, roadsides, and canal banks.
The objective extends beyond merely planting trees. The administration has emphasized the crucial aspect of ensuring the proper care, protection, and sustained growth of each sapling. This focus on post-planting maintenance aims to improve the success rate of such large-scale afforestation drives.
Singh appealed for broad community participation, encouraging school students, Gram Panchayats, social organizations, clubs, and the general public to actively contribute. Residents have been urged to plant at least one sapling each, fostering a collective sense of responsibility towards environmental stewardship. The Deputy Commissioner stated that this initiative directly translates the teachings of Guru Ravidas into tangible action, contributing to a cleaner, greener, and healthier environment for upcoming generations.
While the intent behind the campaign is commendable, the district has a history of challenges with similar large-scale plantation efforts. Previous drives have encountered difficulties primarily related to maintenance and ensuring the survival of planted saplings. Issues such as inadequate fencing, insufficient watering, and vulnerability to environmental stresses like heat and pollution have hampered success rates in the past.
In 2024, the Amritsar district administration had announced a target of planting over 13 lakh saplings during the monsoon season as part of Punjab’s statewide afforestation campaign. At the time of the announcement, approximately 2.5 lakh saplings had already been planted, with the Forest Department tasked with continued plant supply. However, the long-term survival and maintenance of these saplings remain a critical concern.
Similarly, in 2025, a significant mobilization effort was undertaken, involving government departments, educational institutions, NGOs, and residents. The focus then was on planting native species during the monsoon period, with an emphasis on both private land and public spaces. Despite these concerted efforts, the post-plantation care, including essential provisions like fencing and consistent watering, was often reported as lacking, leading to a diminished impact.
The current initiative aims to learn from these past experiences by placing a strong emphasis on the long-term viability of the planted saplings. The success of this endeavor will likely depend on the sustained commitment to aftercare and the active involvement of the community in nurturing the newly planted trees. The administration’s stated intention to link the spiritual commemoration with practical environmental action underscores a growing awareness of the interconnectedness of social and ecological well-being.
❤️ Support Independent Journalism
Your contribution keeps our reporting free, fearless, and accessible to everyone.
Or make a one-time donation
Secure via Razorpay • 12 monthly payments • Cancel anytime before next cycle
(We don't allow anyone to copy content. For Copyright or Use of Content related questions, visit here.)
The Chenab Times News Desk
