Context: Uttar Pradesh government is set to develop a series of “inspirational and thematic” forests across the state.
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- UP government aimed at enhancing environmental protection and promoting national unity.
- The government will also launch a state-wide afforestation drive.
- These forests will be named Shaurya Van, Atal Van, Eklavya Van, Gopal Van, and Triveni Van, with each area dedicated to specific tree species and plantations.
- Various departments will be involved based on the requirements of each project.
- Each of these forest areas will be developed with a unique focus, for example, Shaurya Van will be established in every district to honor martyrs and freedom fighters.
- To increase green cover, these areas will also feature spaces dedicated to paying tribute to national heroes and inspiring the public.
- Atal Van will be established in each district to honor former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
- Ekta Van will be dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
- All these forest areas will be developed within the existing green cover, with additional plantations and other improvements carried out as part of the project.
- Eklavya Van will be developed in the tribal regions of the state, dedicated to the memory of Birsa Munda.
- It has also been proposed to develop ‘Oxy Van’ – dense green spaces in municipal areas aimed at combating pollution and addressing climate change challenges.
- These ‘Oxy Van’ would be developed by the Urban Development Department.
- Gopal Van would be developed near large cow shelters, focusing on planting species that provide shade as well as plants that can be used as fodder for cattle.
- Triveni Van is proposed to be developed along the Ganga and Yamuna rivers, featuring the plantation of neem, peepal, and pakkad trees.
- These areas will be dedicated to the Maha Kumbh 2025 at Sangam.
- The government has also planned to plant 4.12 crore saplings within a 5-km radius of major rivers across Uttar Pradesh as part of its ‘Plantation Mahabhiyan 2025’.
- A significant plantation drive will be held from July 1 to July 7 across the state, with various departments and institutions tasked with planting a total of 35 crore saplings.
- The government is encouraging the creation of special green covers in gram sabhas and urban areas, including the development of vatikas and parks.