High Returns at Low Cost: Madhya Pradesh Boosts Fruit & Shade Tree Plantation, Empowers Women through Horticulture

The Madhya Pradesh government has announced a large-scale push for nursery development and plantation of fruit-bearing and shade-providing trees to ensure high returns at minimal costs. Citizens and farmers are being encouraged to access free or subsidized saplings from the Horticulture Department, instead of purchasing them privately. This campaign is not just a step toward environmental sustainability, but also a livelihood opportunity for farmers and women’s self-help groups (SHGs). As part of the "Ek Bagiya Maa Ke Naam" (A Garden in Mother's Name) initiative, women from SHGs will receive financial assistance for three years to support fruit orchard development.

Zero Cost, Higher Income: The Vision Forward:

Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized that this initiative will be driven through public participation, with active involvement from the private sector and farmers alike. The campaign will ensure the production of high-demand; profitable sapling varieties based on market needs, turning this into a mass movement.

Over 55.4 Million Saplings Already Planted:

According to the Principal Secretary of the Environment Department, over 55.4 million saplings have already been planted across the state since the campaign began on June 5. The Forest Department alone has planted 53.8 million saplings, achieving over 95% of its target. These figures are being regularly monitored on the 'Meri LiFE' portal.

Department-Wise Contribution at a Glance:

1. Higher Education Department: Over 1 lakh indigenous fruit saplings planted
2. Urban Development Department: 4.15 lakh saplings, advancing the goal of urban forests
3. Panchayat Department: Linked over 7,000 women SHGs
4. School Education Department: 5.37 lakh saplings planted, 50,000 saplings planted daily with student participation
5. Horticulture Department: Aiming to cover 4,862 hectares with 21 lakh saplings; 9.34 lakh already planted
6. Environment Department: Planted 2.76 lakh saplings through Eco Clubs

Looking Ahead: Greener Villages, Stronger Incomes:

The tree plantation initiative has also extended to areas such as the Gangotri Green Project and the Maa Narmada Parikrama Path. The “Ek Bagiya Maa Ke Naam” campaign will be actively promoted from August 15 to September 15, aiming to create a lasting green footprint while boosting income avenues in rural regions.

Opportunities in Agriculture, Dairy, and Fisheries:

The Chief Minister also highlighted Madhya Pradesh's third rank in milk production nationwide, with ambitions to soon become the top producer. The state boasts over 6 crore livestock and is actively working to boost irrigation and fisheries sectors, opening up further avenues for rural economic development.