On the occasion of Harela festival, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in a statewide plantation drive held at Gorkha Military Inter College, Dehradun, under the theme “Celebrate Harela, Repay the Debt of Mother Earth.” The CM extended heartfelt wishes to all residents of Uttarakhand and planted a Rudraksha sapling to mark the event.
Calling Harela more than just a festival, the CM described it as a symbol of Uttarakhand’s deep-rooted connection with culture, nature, and environmental consciousness. He announced that the goal for the day was to plant around five lakh saplings across the state. Furthermore, 50% of saplings in each forest division are to be fruit-bearing, ensuring ecological and economic benefits for communities.
Chief Minister Dhami emphasized the importance of community participation, stating that the campaign includes contributions from self-help groups, students, NGOs, and village panchayats. He urged everyone to ensure proper care and maintenance of the saplings until they grow into full trees. He also underlined that protecting Uttarakhand’s natural beauty and biodiversity is a collective moral responsibility.
Ministers Highlight Cultural and Environmental Significance
Agriculture Minister Ganesh Joshi noted that the tradition of planting trees after Harela worship during Shravan month has continued for centuries in Uttarakhand, reflecting both cultural values and environmental duty. He said Harela teaches that protecting nature is not just a responsibility, but a sacred duty.
Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal shared that Harela was celebrated at 2,389 locations this year and praised the state’s record of over 80% survival rate of saplings planted during the past three years. He also raised concern over the declining water levels, stressing the urgent need for continuous plantation efforts and stream conservation.
