Context: Union Ministers of Environment launched the ‘Matri Van’ Initiative in Gurugram, — a 750-acre urban forest project under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign.
About Matri Van Initiative:
- What it is?
- ‘Matri Van’ is a theme-based urban forest project spanning 750 acres in the Aravalli Hills, being developed in Gurugram, Haryana.
- Aim: To foster urban ecological restoration, community-driven tree plantation, biodiversity conservation, and revive the degraded Aravalli landscape.
- Key Features:
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- Multi-stakeholder Participation: CSR bodies, RWAs, MNCs, NGOs, schools, and public agencies to jointly execute the project.
- Flora Restoration: Plantation of native trees like Peepal, Dhak, Amaltash, Neem, Bargad, Pilkhan, Gullar, and Aravalli-specific species.
- Eco Amenities: Nature trails, yoga zones, cycle tracks, gazebos, waterbodies, treated water irrigation, and flood-control mechanisms.
- Carbon Sink Role: Acts as a “Heart and Lung” for NCR, combating pollution and climate stress.
- Integration with PM’s Missions: Part of Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, Mission LiFE, and Van Mahotsav 2025.
Relevance to UPSC Syllabus:
- GS Paper 3 – Environment & Ecology:
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- Urban afforestation models and ecological sustainability.
- Climate change mitigation via green infrastructure.
- GS Paper 2 – Governance & Policy:
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- Implementation of centrally sponsored environmental programs.
- Role of states and local bodies in environment conservation.
- Essay / Ethics Paper:
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- Values of environmental stewardship, community engagement, and inter-generational equity.
- Symbolism of “Mother Nature” and ethical gratitude through Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam.
