TFP Bureau, Raipur; July 11, 2024: In a remarkable display of community spirit and environmental stewardship, 17,000 women in Gariaband district set a new world record by planting 85,000 fruit saplings in a single day. This achievement, part of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative, has been recognized by the Golden Book of World Records.
The campaign, tied to the ‘Poshan Nivesh’ (‘Invest in Nutrition’) initiative by the Department of Women and Child Development, saw newly married, pregnant, and lactating mothers taking part. The theme centered on nurturing the saplings with the same care and affection that mothers give to their children. This large-scale event was spearheaded by the Women and Child Development Minister, Smt. Laxmi Rajwade, and meticulously planned under the leadership of Collector Shri Deepak Agarwal.
Smt. Rajwade emphasized planting fruit saplings in all ‘Anganwadis’ and ‘Poshan Badis’ across the state to ensure 100% care and protection. The saplings, including mango, guava, lemon, jackfruit, and moringa, were prepared in local nurseries through MGNREGA and distributed free of charge. The women were tasked with planting and nurturing these saplings, effectively contributing to both environmental protection and nutritional improvement.
At the recognition event in the Collectorate Hall, Smt. Sonal Sharma, Chhattisgarh Head of the Golden Book of World Records, presented the World Record trophy, medal, and certificate to Collector Shri Agarwal, praising the groundbreaking initiative. Smt. Sharma highlighted that this was the first program of its kind, where such a large number of women participated in a single-day planting event.
Collector Shri Agarwal underscored the dual objectives of combating malnutrition and promoting environmental sustainability. He stressed the importance of plant care, noting that the women involved have committed to protecting and nurturing the saplings. “This ‘Invest in Nutrition’ campaign is about securing the future of our children by investing in their nutritional needs through these fruit-bearing plants,” he stated.
The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s call in “Mann Ki Baat” for citizens to plant a tree in honor of their mothers. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai has also urged schoolchildren and the public to support this cause.
The event saw attendance from key officials including CEO of Zila Panchayat Smt. Rita Yadav and DPO of the Women and Child Development Department Shri Ashok Pandey. The community’s enthusiastic participation has not only set a world record but also laid the foundation for a healthier and greener future.
