New Delhi: Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav, along with Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, today inaugurated 18 Namo Oxygen Parks across New Delhi on the occasion of World Environment Day 2026. The event also marked the launch of multiple environmental initiatives under the nationwide campaign ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, aimed at promoting large-scale tree plantation and environmental awareness.
The main programme was held at Namo Oxygen Park, Maidangarhi, where senior Union and Delhi government officials also participated.
‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ Campaign Gets Major Push
During the event, Union Minister Bhupender Yadav emphasized that the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative has evolved into a people-driven environmental movement. He said the campaign reflects values of gratitude, responsibility, and long-term environmental commitment, encouraging citizens not only to plant trees but also to nurture them.
He urged public participation in strengthening India’s ecological balance and highlighted the importance of collective action in addressing environmental challenges.
India’s Global Leadership in Climate Action
Addressing the gathering, Bhupender Yadav said India has emerged as a global leader in environmental protection under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He highlighted several key achievements, including:
- Rapid expansion of solar energy capacity
- Establishment of the International Solar Alliance (ISA)
- Launch of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)
- Progress in meeting Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets ahead of schedule
- Expansion of Ramsar Wetland sites
- Implementation of schemes like PM Surya Ghar Yojana
He also identified three major global environmental challenges: climate change, biodiversity loss, and land degradation leading to desertification.
Delhi Government Targets 15 Lakh Trees for Greener Capital
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced that the Delhi government aims to plant 15 lakh trees in the current year to improve the city’s air quality and green cover.
She stressed that citizen participation is essential not only in plantation drives but also in ensuring long-term care and protection of trees.
Focus on Pollution Control and Urban Greening
The Union Minister highlighted ongoing efforts in coordination with the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to tackle major pollution sources in Delhi, including:
- Road dust control measures
- Reduction of vehicular emissions
- Industrial pollution management
- Installation of Online Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems (OCEMS)
- Deployment of Air Pollution Control Devices (APCDs)
- Mechanised road cleaning
- Promotion of electric mobility
He also stated that initiatives like Namo Oxygen Parks are being developed as urban green lungs to improve air quality and provide recreational spaces.
Key Environmental Publications Released
On the occasion, three important environmental documents were released by the Delhi government:
Working Plan for Delhi (2026–2037)
A 10-year roadmap outlining environmental governance, conservation strategies, and sustainable development goals for the National Capital Territory.
Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary Management Plan (2024–2035)
A detailed conservation blueprint for protecting and restoring one of Delhi’s most important biodiversity zones.
Delhi Bird Atlas
A citizen science-based publication documenting Delhi’s bird species, prepared with contributions from birdwatchers, naturalists, and volunteers.
Community Participation and Ecological Conservation Emphasized
Officials highlighted that community involvement is key to the success of environmental initiatives. Civil society organisations contributing to the Delhi Bird Atlas were also honoured at the event.
The programme included a sapling plantation drive under ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ and an exhibition showcasing local grasses and shrubs under the ‘Dust-free Delhi’ campaign.
About Namo Oxygen Parks
The newly inaugurated 18 Namo Oxygen Parks are designed to enhance urban biodiversity, improve air quality, and offer green public spaces for residents. These parks are part of a broader initiative to strengthen urban ecological infrastructure across Delhi.
