‘Matri Van’ Initiative Launched in Gurugram to Revive Aravallis Ecosystem, Boost Urban Sustainability

In a major step toward environmental preservation, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, along with Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, and Power, Shri Manohar Lal, today launched the ambitious ‘Matri Van’ initiative under the Government of India's ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ programme. The ceremonial event, held as part of the Van Mahotsav 2025 celebrations in Gurugram, was organized by the Forest Department of Haryana and marked a pivotal moment in India's commitment to ecological sustainability and community participation.

The ceremony witnessed significant participation from key dignitaries, including Haryana's Minister for Industries and Forest, Shri Rao Narbir Singh, alongside senior representatives from the State Government, environmental activists, local residents, school children, and corporate representatives.

An Ecological Legacy for Future Generations

Envisioned as a vibrant 750-acre urban forest, the Matri Van initiative will be developed along the picturesque Gurugram-Faridabad Road within the Aravalli hills. The project symbolizes a meaningful tribute to Mother Nature and is strategically designed to become a unique ecological and cultural space, enhancing regional biodiversity, improving air quality, and serving as a sanctuary for public health and community well-being.

This expansive green corridor aims to restore and protect the local Aravalli ecosystem through coordinated reforestation efforts, including the replacement of invasive species like Kabuli Kikar (Prosopis juliflora) with native and traditional tree species, thereby rejuvenating the degraded land.

Holistic Development: Green Cover and Community Engagement

The Matri Van initiative stands out for its inclusive and collaborative framework, involving multiple stakeholders such as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) partners, Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), NGOs, multinational corporations (MNCs), schools, and government institutions. The collective effort ensures shared responsibility for the ecological well-being of the region, fostering active citizen participation.

In his address, Union Minister Manohar Lal stressed the urgency of addressing global carbon emissions through local action. He highlighted that while advanced carbon capture technology is vital, traditional ecological wisdom—preventing deforestation, expanding green cover, and encouraging tree plantations—remains essential. Minister Lal proudly informed that India's renewable energy share has already surpassed 50% in its energy mix, significantly contributing to emissions reduction.

He further urged Gurugram to take the lead nationally by adopting innovative environmental practices, such as promoting green buildings, eco-tourism initiatives like wildlife safaris, and establishing biodiversity parks. He stressed the potential of Matri Van to become a role model, demonstrating a balance between urban development and ecological sustainability.

‘Matri Van’ as Delhi-NCR’s Ecological Lung

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, in his inspirational speech, described Matri Van as the new "heart and lung" for the entire Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR). He acknowledged Haryana’s significant contribution, expressing gratitude towards the state government for allocating a substantial land parcel currently covered by thorny bushes for this transformational green project.

Highlighting the project's human benefits, Minister Yadav envisioned Matri Van as a serene oasis for the people—young and old—to experience nature, promoting physical and mental health, reducing stress, and enhancing quality of life. He reiterated that Gurugram's transformation into a clean, green urban city would position it as an ideal example for other Indian cities, reflecting the vision of a true ‘Millennium City’.

Minister Yadav also recognized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership in promoting environmental stewardship, specifically noting Modi's call for rejuvenating the Aravalli hill range by planting indigenous tree species. Linking this project to the broader Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), Minister Yadav underscored the importance of sustainable practices, including water conservation, waste management, reducing plastic use, and promoting healthier lifestyles.

Ecological Restoration: Diverse and Thematic Plantation Groves

The Matri Van project will meticulously introduce diverse, ecologically appropriate plantations categorized into thoughtfully designed thematic groves:

• Bodhi Vatika: A sacred grove comprising trees like Bargad, Peepal, Gullar, and Pilkhan.

• Bamboosetum: Dedicated grove featuring diverse bamboo species.

• Aravalli Species Arboretum: Native tree species such as Dhauk, Salar, Kullu, Khairi, vital for the Aravalli ecosystem.

• Pushp Vatika: Enchanting garden featuring flowering tree varieties.

• Sugandh Vatika: Garden of fragrant species enhancing sensory experiences.

• Medicinal Plants Vatika: Cultivation of traditional medicinal herbs promoting health and wellness.

• Nakshatra and Rashi Vatikas: Astrological gardens connecting spirituality with biodiversity.

• Cactus Garden and Butterfly Garden: Specialized zones enriching biodiversity and ecological balance.

Other species to be planted include Amaltash, Bael Patra, Imli, Semal, Neem, Dhak, Khirni, Desi Kadam, and shrubs such as Goya Khair, Gangeran, and Marod Falli.

Infrastructure for Sustainable Urban Interaction

Complementing the ecological restoration, Matri Van will integrate facilities that encourage public interaction and sustainable tourism, such as:

• Nature trails and cycling tracks encouraging active lifestyles.

• Yoga zones and meditation areas promoting holistic wellness.

• Gazebos and seating areas for relaxation amidst nature.

• Strategically located water bodies to conserve water resources, support wildlife, and mitigate urban flooding risks.

• Efficient treated-water irrigation systems to sustainably maintain green cover.

Additionally, parking and other public amenities will be available to facilitate ease of access, making it an inclusive and user-friendly green space for all residents.

Ongoing Commitment: Jungle Safari and Plantation Drives

Earlier the same day, Ministers Bhupender Yadav and Manohar Lal reviewed progress on the upcoming Aravalli Jungle Safari Park, another landmark ecological initiative. They also actively participated in plantation drives at five locations within the IMT Manesar industrial area, organized by the Haryana State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (HSIIDC), signifying the government’s holistic commitment to greening urban industrial zones.

Paving the Path for Future Generations

The Matri Van initiative embodies a visionary approach, seamlessly integrating urban development with environmental conservation, aligning perfectly with India's global environmental commitments and sustainable development goals (SDGs). By pioneering an inclusive model of ecological responsibility, Matri Van is set to become a national benchmark, revitalizing biodiversity, fostering ecological education, and enhancing quality of urban life.

The launch marks not just a symbolic tribute to Mother Nature but a powerful commitment to leaving behind a sustainable, green legacy for future generations.