Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced in Agartala on World Environment Day that the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have planted more than 6.4 crore trees across India since 2019.
Speaking at the BSF’s Lankamura Border Outpost in Tripura, Shah outlined future plantation targets and stressed the urgent need for environmental conservation to tackle climate change.
Quick Glance
- CAPF has planted over 6.4 crore trees nationwide since 2019.
- Around 40 lakh to 60 lakh saplings will be planted during 2026.
- Security forces aim to plant two crore trees next year.
- Amit Shah highlighted climate change, rising temperatures, and forest conservation during World Environment Day celebrations in Tripura.
Agartala: The Central Armed Police Forces have emerged as a major contributor to India’s afforestation efforts. Addressing personnel at the BSF’s Lankamura Border Outpost near the India-Bangladesh border in Tripura, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said environmental protection has become an integral part of the CAPF’s national service mission.
According to Shah, security personnel have planted more than 6.4 crore trees of various species across the country over the past several years. The initiative forms part of a larger effort to improve forest cover and support India’s climate commitments.
The Home Minister noted that plantation drives would continue with renewed focus on ensuring higher survival rates of saplings.
Replantation to Receive Special Attention This Year
Shah stated that authorities would not only plant fresh saplings but also replace those that failed to survive during previous plantation campaigns.
This year’s afforestation programme is expected to add between 40 lakh and 60 lakh trees across different regions of the country.
The government believes that monitoring and replantation are essential for achieving long-term environmental goals.
Plantation Targets at a Glance
| Initiative | Target |
|---|---|
| Trees planted since 2019 | 6.4 crore+ |
| Plantation target for 2026 | 40-60 lakh trees |
| Plantation target for next year | 2 crore trees |
| Focus areas | New plantation and replantation |
Climate Change Threat Demands Immediate Action
The Home Minister expressed concern over the growing impact of climate change. He said rapid urbanisation and large-scale felling of trees for infrastructure projects have contributed to rising global temperatures.
According to Shah, these environmental changes are affecting agriculture, human health, and natural ecosystems. He warned that continued ecological degradation could create severe challenges for future generations.
He stressed that increasing forest cover remains one of the most effective strategies to address climate-related threats.
“Protecting forests and expanding green cover are essential steps for restoring environmental balance,” he said.
World Environment Day Observed at Lankamura Border Outpost
As part of World Environment Day celebrations, Amit Shah planted saplings at the BSF’s Lankamura Border Outpost in West Tripura district.
He was joined by Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha, senior BSF officials, and other dignitaries.
The plantation programme symbolised the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability while highlighting the role of security forces in conservation efforts.
The event also showcased the importance of involving border security personnel in nationwide environmental campaigns.
India’s Climate Commitments Remain Firm
The Home Minister reiterated India’s commitment to global climate action frameworks, including the Paris Climate Agreement.
He said the country continues to pursue economic development while adopting environmentally responsible policies. According to Shah, India has introduced several initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions, promoting clean energy generation, and improving energy efficiency.
He also credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for consistently advocating energy conservation, environmental protection, and mass afforestation.
Shah noted that India’s approach to climate action has received international recognition for balancing development needs with ecological responsibilities.
Citizens Must Become Partners in Conservation
Calling for collective action, the Home Minister urged citizens, institutions, and organisations to participate actively in plantation drives.
He emphasized that environmental protection should become a shared social responsibility. Comparing nature’s importance to that of family, Shah said forests and natural resources deserve the same care and attention that people give to their loved ones.
He warned that unchecked global warming, ozone layer depletion, and climate disruptions could make parts of the planet increasingly difficult to inhabit if corrective measures are delayed.
His message underscored the urgency of taking action today to secure a sustainable future.
Significance for Tripura and the North East
The announcement carries special significance for Tripura and the North East, regions known for their rich biodiversity and forest resources.
With growing concerns over climate change and ecological degradation, afforestation efforts in border states can strengthen environmental resilience while supporting sustainable development.
The participation of the BSF and other CAPF units also demonstrates how national security institutions are contributing beyond their traditional roles by supporting environmental conservation initiatives.
People Also Ask (FAQ)
How many trees has CAPF planted since 2019?
The Central Armed Police Forces have planted more than 6.4 crore trees across India since 2019.
What is CAPF’s plantation target for next year?
CAPF plans to plant around two crore trees next year as part of its environmental conservation drive.
Where did Amit Shah make the announcement?
He made the announcement at the BSF’s Lankamura Border Outpost in West Tripura during World Environment Day celebrations.