Bhusawal, Maharashtra, July 6, 2025 — Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Smt. Raksha Nikhil Khadse, led the second phase of the tree plantation initiative “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0” in Bhusawal, Jalgaon. Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, this green mission saw the planting of over 2,000 native trees by students, officials, and citizens.
This large-scale effort was a joint initiative by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, District Administration Jalgaon, and My Bharat, Jalgaon. Volunteers planted native species like Kadu Badam, Neem, Tamarind, Amla, and Shisham. These trees will improve biodiversity and help reduce soil erosion, groundwater depletion, and extreme heat.
The event featured key dignitaries. These included Shri Sanjay Savkare, Minister of Textiles, District Collector Ayush Prasad, and others like Dr. Sachin Nandre, Ashok Kumar, Bhushan Patil, and Sangeeta Biyani. Also present were local leaders such as Sarpanch Bhaiya Mahajan of Chorwad.
Leadership Rooted in Culture
While addressing the gathering, Smt. Khadse quoted Saint Tukaram Maharaj:
“Vrukshavalli Aamha Soyare, He Vishwachi Maze Ghar” — meaning, trees are our kin and the world is our home. She urged the youth to “Plant trees, save trees! Cultivate a life of joy!”
This quote, paired with her message, inspired many in attendance.
Students Lead the Green Charge
Significantly, students played a key role in the event. NSS units from various colleges in Bhusawal showed great enthusiasm. These included P.O. Nahata College, P.K. Kotecha Mahila Mahavidyalaya, and Chaitanya Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya.
Other participating institutions were D.D.N. Bhole College, Godavari Nursing College, Industrial Training Institute Bhusawal, Biyani Military School, and Rajaram Dhondu Secondary Vidyalaya. Together, these young volunteers proved the strength of youth-led climate action.
Commitment to Sustainable Living
Above all, the event reinforced a collective commitment to sustainable living and ecological responsibility. “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0” became more than just a campaign — it became a movement of climate consciousness and community bonding.
Backed by strong leadership and citizen participation, this initiative will leave a lasting impact on local ecology.
Conclusion: Honoring Mothers, Honoring Earth
“Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0” is more than a tree-planting effort. It is a cultural message rooted in respect — for both our mothers and Mother Earth. With continued support, this initiative will help build a greener, healthier, and more responsible India.