Protection of trees key to ecological balance: Haryana minister Anil Vij

Haryana Energy, Transport and Labour Minister Anil Vij today stressed that protecting trees was essential to maintain ecological balance. He was addressing a gathering at the district-level Van Mahotsav organised at Gandhi Ground in Ambala Cantonment.

The minister said, “Trees are essential for life. They give us air and from air comes life. The healthier the air, the longer our lifespan. To make the Earth green, while we must plant more trees. Protecting trees has become all the more important now. Earlier, trees dominated open fields, but due to development projects and large-scale construction, the area under trees has shrunk. What has been taken from the nature must be returned. To keep the ecological balance intact, we must plant more trees.”

Vij distributed saplings among councillors and BJP workers, urging them to ensure plantation and conservation in every ward and village.

Highlighting the Prime Minister’s campaign, Vij added, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign. Just as a mother nurtures, loves and protects her child, we must nurture and protect trees, and if any harm comes to them, we must safeguard.”

On the occasion, Vij along with Municipal Council officials planted Kadamba saplings, noting, “The Kadamba tree is significant because Lord Shri Krishna performed his divine plays under it.”

During the programme, the minister announced a reward of Rs 2,100 from his discretionary fund for each student, who presented songs and street plays on environmental conservation. Quiz competition winners were also felicitated with certificates and Rs 2,100 each. An oath was also administered to all attendees to plant and conserve trees.