Lucknow | As part of its afforestation push, the Uttar Pradesh government is kickstarting a special drive to develop forests in various districts. The drive will begin from Mirzapur on July 18.

According to an official statement, the forest department has finalised a schedule to hold statewide events in this regard which will continue throughout the monsoon season.

Different forest divisions across the state have been tasked with organising key events and developing distinct thematic forests.

To inspire public participation, Chief Minister Adityanath has directed that these events should be celebrated as grand festivals, the statement said.

According to Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Sunil Chaudhary, divisions will organise local programmes, while zonal or divisional chief conservators will serve as nodal officers for state-level events.

This initiative follows the state's record-setting plantation drive on July 9, when over 37 crore saplings were planted in a single day, the statement read.

The Forest Department's plan includes establishing Shakti Van, Eklavya Van, Oxy Van, Triveni Van, Atal Van, Gopal Van and Ekta Van, along with unique initiatives like Pavitra Dhara Plantation, Bhai-Behan Plantation, Shaurya Van and 'Ek Ped Guru Ke Naam'.

Additionally, special focus is being given to moringa (drumstick) plantations and collaborative drives with industrial units, read the statement.