Ahmedabad’s Green Goal in Gujarat: 40 Lakh New Trees

Ahmedabad, Gujarat – In a vibrant stride towards a greener future, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Thursday launched the ambitious ‘Mission for Million Trees’ on World Environment Day, setting a formidable target of planting 40 lakh trees across Ahmedabad. The initiative kicked off with a symbolic gesture: the planting of a vermilion (Sindoor) tree at the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) plot in Jagatpur, marking the genesis of a unique “Sindoor Van” that promises to be a striking testament to both nature and tradition.

The Chief Minister’s presence reflected the state’s unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability. After personally planting a vermilion tree, CM Patel awarded bicycles to five talented winners of an environment-oriented painting competition, organized by the AMC’s Air Quality Management Cell. He also flagged off 11 “tree chariots” and dedicated tables, designed to actively promote tree planting and conservation awareness among the city’s populace.

“This mission is not just about planting trees; it’s about nurturing a greener legacy for future generations,” stated Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, emphasizing the holistic vision behind the initiative. “Every tree we plant is a breath of fresh air for our city, a step towards mitigating climate change, and a commitment to a healthier environment.”

A significant highlight of the launch was the announcement by Committee Chairman Devang Dani regarding the development of an Oxygen Park. “The ‘Samasta Vaishnav Vanik Parivar (SVVP)’ will fund and develop an Oxygen Park spanning 5,000 square meters near Jagatpur Bridge, which will be named Sindoor Van,” Dani revealed. This innovative Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model will see the park developed and maintained for five years. Out of an estimated 12,000 trees planned for this Oxygen Park, 551 will be rare vermilion trees, forming the core of the Sindoor Van, while the remaining indigenous trees will be planted using the rapid-growth Miyawaki method.

The choice of the vermilion tree, scientifically known as Bixa Orellana, holds deep cultural and ecological significance. This medium-sized tree, native to South Asian countries, produces seeds that yield a natural vermilion-colored powder. This natural vermilion is not only used for traditional markings but is also a natural food coloring agent and a key ingredient in high-quality lipsticks, hair dyes, and nail polishes. Beyond cosmetics, the vermilion tree offers medicinal benefits, aiding digestion, promoting skin health, and reducing inflammation, with traditional uses including treating infections and skin disorders. Its commercial applications extend to making red ink, paints, and even soap.

The ambitious ‘Mission for Million Trees’ aims to plant 40 lakh trees this year, with 21 lakh trees being procured from private agencies to supplement the 4.30 lakh from municipal nurseries and 14 lakh from the forest department nurseries. The AMC has meticulously identified plots across all wards and assembly constituencies, dedicating 5.25 lakh square meters of space for this massive plantation drive. Key partners like Anand Garden Nursery, Dharti Nursery and Farm, Harikrishna Nursery and Plantation, and Neelkanth Landscape Associates have been tasked with cultivating this green expanse.

In a testament to its long-term commitment, the AMC proudly noted that it has already planted approximately one crore (10 million) trees between 2011-12 and 2024-25. This year, a significant portion—24 lakh trees—will be planted in various municipal corporation plots, with a dense forest of 13 to 15 lakh trees planned for the Gyaspur area alone.