Raipur: In a unique initiative to promote environmental conservation, the Jashpur Forest Division of Chhattisgarh has launched a mobile ‘Tree ATM’, an innovative service that will distribute free saplings to citizens across the district while encouraging large-scale tree plantation.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai flagged off the mobile Tree ATM from the Bagiya Helipad premises in Jashpur. Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, the initiative aims to increase public participation in tree plantation and strengthen the state’s green cover.
Mobile Tree ATM to Reach Every Corner of Jashpur
Unlike a traditional ATM that dispenses cash, the Tree ATM will travel across different parts of Jashpur district and provide free saplings to residents.
The initiative has been designed to make plant distribution more accessible while creating greater awareness about environmental protection.
The mobile Tree ATM will encourage citizens to actively participate in plantation drives during the monsoon season, which is considered the best time for planting trees.
CM Vishnu Deo Sai Flags Off the Initiative
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai inaugurated the initiative by personally receiving an Amla (Indian Gooseberry) sapling from the Tree ATM and distributing plants among citizens.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister praised the innovative concept and said the initiative would make saplings easily available to people while encouraging them to become active participants in environmental conservation.
He noted that the ongoing monsoon season provides the ideal opportunity for large-scale plantation efforts across the state.
Inspired by PM Modi’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ Campaign
The Tree ATM initiative draws inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s nationwide “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (One Tree in Mother’s Name) campaign.
CM Sai urged every citizen to plant at least one tree in the name of their mother and take responsibility for nurturing it until it grows.
He said collective public participation in plantation drives would help create a cleaner, greener, and healthier environment for future generations.
Tree ATM Will Also Teach Citizens How to Care for Plants
One of the unique features of the initiative is that it goes beyond simply distributing saplings.
Citizens receiving plants will also be guided on:
- Scientific methods of planting saplings
- Proper watering and fertilisation techniques
- Regular maintenance and protection measures
- Best practices to improve plant survival rates
The Forest Department aims to ensure that planted saplings not only survive but also grow into healthy trees over time.
Focus on Long-Term Environmental Sustainability
The initiative promotes the message “Today’s Sapling, Tomorrow’s Shade”, highlighting the importance of long-term environmental responsibility.
Instead of focusing only on plantation numbers, the Forest Department is placing greater emphasis on improving the survival rate of saplings through awareness and proper care.
Officials believe this approach will create a sustainable model for community-driven environmental conservation.
A Modern Model for Public Participation in Green Initiatives
The mobile Tree ATM represents an innovative blend of technology-inspired outreach and environmental awareness.
By taking free saplings directly to communities and educating citizens on their care, the initiative is expected to strengthen public participation in Chhattisgarh’s green mission and support the state’s efforts toward sustainable development.
The project also reinforces the government’s commitment to expanding green cover while encouraging every citizen to contribute to environmental protection through meaningful action.
Read also: CM Vishnu Deo Sai Meets Raipur DRM, Discusses Modernisation of Sarona and Balod Railway Stations
