From Narmada Jayanti to National Movement
The pledge dates back to February 19, 2021, when Shri Chouhan planted ‘Rudraksha’ and ‘Sal’ saplings at Amarkantak on the occasion of Narmada Jayanti. On that day, he resolved to plant at least one sapling every single day.
Since then, the Minister has consistently fulfilled his commitment without interruption. Whether in his home state, during official engagements across India, or even while travelling abroad, he has maintained the routine of daily plantation.
Programme to Mark Five-Year Milestone
The commemorative programme on February 19 will begin with the ceremonial planting of five saplings, symbolising continuity and renewed commitment. A video presentation and overview of the five-year journey will follow.
In his keynote address, Shri Chouhan is expected to share experiences from the campaign, highlight the importance of public participation, and outline a roadmap for expanding environmental awareness into a mass movement.
The event will bring together spiritual leaders, environmentalists, jurists and agricultural experts to reflect on the broader ecological message behind the initiative.
Distinguished Participation
The programme will feature prominent speakers including Dr. Chinmay Pandya of the All World Gayatri Pariwar, Justice Prakash Shrivastava, Chairperson of the National Green Tribunal, environmentalist Anil Joshi, Sadhvi Ritambhara, senior journalist Ashutosh Jha, and ICAR Director General Dr. M.L. Jat.
Their participation highlights the spiritual, legal, scientific and social dimensions of environmental conservation. The discussion is expected to emphasise the integration of ecological responsibility into everyday life.
Beyond a Personal Pledge
While the daily plantation began as a personal commitment, it has gradually inspired broader public engagement. During his tenure as Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Chouhan had already championed large-scale environmental initiatives.
In 2017, the Narmada Seva Yatra culminated in the plantation of more than six crore saplings across Madhya Pradesh, transforming river and forest conservation into a participatory campaign.
Subsequently, the ‘Ankur Abhiyan’ encouraged citizens to plant saplings and upload photographs to a dedicated portal, promoting accountability and community ownership. Nearly one crore saplings were planted under this initiative.
Environmental Protection as a Way of Life
Over time, the tree plantation pledge has expanded beyond state boundaries, gaining national and even international resonance. Citizens have been encouraged to mark birthdays, anniversaries and memorial occasions by planting saplings.
Supporters argue that if a public leader can integrate environmental action into daily routine, ordinary citizens can do the same. The message is clear: environmental protection must move beyond speeches and become a lived practice.
As India navigates climate challenges and promotes sustainable agriculture, initiatives that combine personal commitment with public participation offer a powerful model.
A Green Message for the Future
The five-year milestone represents more than numerical achievement. It symbolises persistence, awareness and collective responsibility toward nature.
With the February 19 programme, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan seeks to reinforce the idea that ecological stewardship is not a one-day campaign but a lifelong duty one sapling at a time.
