Koraput, Jul 6: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan participated in a vibrant tree plantation drive in Koraput as part of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0” campaign and the Van Mahotsav celebrations.

The initiative took place at the 3rd Battalion OSAP campus, where students, women groups, social organizations, and volunteers came together to plant saplings in a collective pledge to protect Mother Earth.

Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister Pradhan emphasized that restoring Koraput’s former glory in the 21st century begins with turning the region green. “More trees mean stronger soil, better water conservation, and greater resilience,” he said, linking the initiative with cultural reverence, noting that Lord Jagannath — worshipped as Darubrahma — is deeply associated with nature in Odia tradition.

He called on citizens to protect the environment starting from their homes and roadside spaces, underscoring Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal to make tree planting a national mission. “We must care for every tree as a child and take a pledge to safeguard the land beneath it,” Pradhan urged.

Reflecting on his long-standing bond with Koraput, the minister said the region has immense potential and that transforming barren forest land into thriving green spaces must be a top priority. He outlined a holistic development vision — enhancing basic amenities, supporting local agricultural products, and promoting tribal handicrafts — to make Koraput a model for sustainability.

The campaign also saw the ceremonial flag-off of a “Green Rath,” symbolizing mobile awareness and the spread of environmental education across nearby villages.

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