The weeklong celebration of Van Mahotsav 2025, also known as the Festival of Forests, was launched today at 8th Manipur Rifles (MR) complex, Leikun, in Chandel district with the planting of hundreds of saplings. The event is being organised by the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Chandel.
Dr. N. Munal Meitei, DFO of Chandel, attended the function as the Chief Guest, while Commanding Officer of 8th MR Leikun, N. Modhunimai Singh, presided over the inaugural function.
Around 250 individuals, including jawans of 8th MR, media personnel, and forest staff, actively took part in the plantation programme, during which nearly 500 saplings of various species were planted across the premises.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Munal Meitei announced that during this weeklong celebration, a total of one lakh saplings will be planted at 26 identified locations across the district. The initiative will include afforestation, plantation, and decorative gardening in collaboration with local volunteers and civil society members.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Munal highlighted the national theme of this year’s Van Mahotsav, “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0”, which urges every citizen to plant a tree in honour of their mother. “Planting a tree in our mother’s name symbolises our love and responsibility for future generations and the environment,” he said. He further stated that with India’s population at around 146 crore, if every citizen plants a single tree, the country can achieve tremendous environmental transformation.
He informed that the nationwide target for this year’s campaign is to plant 10 crore saplings.
Dr. Munal also stressed that without trees, there can be no life. “Trees are the ultimate protectors of our planet. To ensure a green, safe, and sustainable future, we must preserve forests and wildlife,” he urged. He called upon the people of Manipur to join hands in planting, conserving, and protecting trees to preserve nature for future generations.