89/2025-2026.

Dated Aizawl, the 5th June, 2025: Pu K. Sapdanga, Urban Development & Poverty Alleviation (UD&PA) Minister graced the ‘Women for Trees’ Plantation Drive at BSUP Complex, Lawipu as the Chief Guest today, in observance of World Environment Day. Pu Lalmalsawma Pachuau, UD&PA Secretary was the Guest of Honour. This campaign is an initiative of AMRUT Mitra under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).

In his inaugural speech, Pu K. Sapdanga reiterated the importance of monitoring and maintaining tree plantations apart from planting trees, and commended the women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) on their capacity to lead the campaign to success. The Minister also highlighted the role of trees in preventing environmental disasters. He urged the gathering to strive for sustainable success instead of short-term gains.

The programme was chaired by Pu Jacob Lalawmpuia, UD&PA Director, who gave the welcome and keynote address. Pu Andrew Lalhruaia, UD&PA Joint Director (Plan) reported on the department’s achievements and future objectives under the ‘Women for Trees’ initiative. The Guest of Honour, Pu Lalmalsawma Pachuau distributed tree plantation kits to 27 SHG members. The event was attended by SHG members and employees of the UD&PA department. Following the inauguration, the Chief Guest, the Guest of Honour, and department officials planted trees at the location.

The slogan for ‘Women for Trees’ campaign is ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ which means ‘Planting a Tree in the Name of One’s Mother’. As per the UD&PA Department’s plan, 517 members of 112 SHGs will plant 1149 saplings. 46 sites in 10 cities have been proposed for plantation under Phase-I. In Aizawl, the proposed sites are the three BSUP Complexes in Lawipu, Edenthar, and Durtlang, and RAY Complex in Falkland. Phase II of the campaign comprises of the plantation drive that was launched today. This will continue till August, after which, Phase-III: monitoring and maintenance of plantations by SHG members, will ensue.