The Government of Gujarat launched the third phase of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (#Plant4Mother) campaign on World Environment Day (5 June 2026). The initiative employs the ‘Van Kavach’ methodology to accelerate urban forestry, aiming to plant over 50 lakh saplings across 500 hectares.
The Van Kavach Model
- Methodology: A localized adaptation of the Miyawaki method, pioneered by Japanese botanist Dr. Akira Miyawaki.
- Three-Tier Canopy Structure: Uses a strict proportional placement of native species:
- Upper Canopy (20%): Provides overhead shield and manages light.
- Middle Canopy (50%): Increases biomass and supports bird nesting.
- Lower Canopy (30%): Reduces evaporation and prevents weed growth.
- Efficiency: Plants grow 10 times faster and achieve 30 times higher density than linear plantations, reaching self-sustainability in 20–30 years.
Campaign Evolution and National Context
- Inception: Launched by PM Narendra Modi on 5 June 2024 at Buddha Jayanti Park, New Delhi.
- Objectives: Combines community tradition (tribute to mothers) with climate action.
- Progress:
- Phase 1 (2024): 5.5 crore saplings planted.
- Phase 2 (2025): 10 crore trees targeted to support Mission LiFE.
- Phase 3 (2026): Focuses on decentralized, sub-state execution (e.g., Gujarat’s taluka-level distribution).
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- Mission LiFE: An India-led global movement promoting mindful consumption to combat climate change.
- Constitutional Mandate: Directly addresses Article 51A(g), which establishes the fundamental duty of citizens to protect the natural environment.
- Funding: Supported by the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) and CAMPA funds.
- Keystone Species: The Peepal tree (Ficus religiosa) is prioritized for its immense ecological value.