Guwahati, June 5 (IANS) Assam on Friday recorded a major environmental milestone with the plantation of more than 1.02 crore saplings across the state in a single-day greening drive led by women associated with Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said.

Sharing the achievement on social media platform X, Sarma hailed the contribution of Assam’s women, stating that the record had been made possible by the active participation of the state’s ‘Nari Shakti’.

“Assam achieves a historic milestone! In just over eight hours, over 1.02 crore saplings have been planted by the people, in an effort led by Assam’s enterprising Nari Shakti, setting a new record in our greening efforts. Compliments to all my sisters for achieving this feat,” the Chief Minister posted.

According to official figures released after the plantation drive, a total of 1,02,35,632 saplings were planted across Assam, with participation from 35,34,746 registered SHG members.

Nagaon district recorded the highest participation with 2,35,478 SHG members taking part in the drive and planting 5,25,493 saplings.

Barpeta planted 5,54,666 saplings, the highest among all districts, followed closely by Golaghat with 5,36,590 saplings and Biswanath with 5,36,000 saplings.

Dhubri contributed 5,12,193 saplings, while Udalguri planted 4,61,500 saplings. Kamrup district accounted for 4,46,968 saplings and Kokrajhar for 4,06,778 saplings.

Lakhimpur, Sonitpur and Morigaon also reported significant contributions, planting over three lakh saplings each.

The plantation campaign was organised as part of the state government’s broader efforts to enhance green cover, promote environmental conservation and encourage community participation in climate action initiatives.

Officials said the drive witnessed enthusiastic participation from women-led Self-Help Groups across urban and rural areas, making it one of the largest community-driven plantation campaigns undertaken in Assam.

The government believes the initiative will not only help strengthen the state’s ecological balance but also raise awareness about sustainable environmental practices at the grassroots level.

The plantation figures are expected to be verified and documented as part of the state’s ongoing green mission.

–IANS

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