Kota (Rajasthan) [India], July 7 (ANI): Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday launched the 'Van Mahotsav' in Kota, Rajasthan under the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign.

Speaker Birla planted trees in the Mukundra sanctuary area on Rawatbhata Road on the occasion.

Birla urged everyone to take collective responsibility as guardians of nature and to plant trees. He said Kota is a vibrant and aware city that has shown exemplary strength in times of crisis and disaster. 'Now, it's time to make Kota the cleanest, most beautiful, and greenest city through a people's movement,' he said.

Birla expressed concern over the increasing Air Quality Index (AQI) in Kota. 'To fight this challenge and secure the future of our children, it's our collective moral responsibility to protect nature. Our culture worships nature, and Rajasthan is a land that has sacrificed lives to protect trees. Today, we need determination, not sacrifice,' he emphasised.

Om Birla requested teachers to motivate students to plant trees and take care of them. This will create a positive competition for environmental conservation. He said PM Modi's message of an 'environment-friendly lifestyle' and 'Ek Ped Maa ke Naam' campaign is an inspiration.

Birla mentioned Kota resident Bajarang Lal, who single-handedly plants and protects trees on the roadside. 'His dedication is an inspiration for all. During the ceremony, forest department employees who made outstanding contributions to tree plantation and environmental conservation were honoured.'

During the Van Mahotsav, people, social organisations, and activists showed great enthusiasm for tree plantation. 10,000 plants were planted at the venue, and 25,000 plants were planted across the district. The sense of ownership and connection with nature was evident among the people.

On the occasion of World Environment Day (5 June 2025), a special campaign called 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0' was launched. (ANI)