Vriksh Utpadak Mela in Gonda Promotes Tree-Based Livelihoods and Ecology

The importance of tree plantation and ecological balance came into sharp focus with the inauguration of the Vriksh Utpadak Mela (Tree Growers’ Fair) by Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh. The event, held at the District Panchayat Auditorium, was organized by the ICFRE–Ecological Restoration Centre, Prayagraj, and brought together farmers, forestry experts, policymakers, and local communities.

Minister’s Call for Green Prosperity

In his address, Shri Singh highlighted that the value of trees extends far beyond income generation. “Every tree planted contributes to clean air, water security, and better health. Increased greenery in villages also helps conserve biodiversity, including birds and other species,” he said.

He urged farmers and communities to integrate tree plantation into their fields, barren lands, and grazing pastures, noting that doing so would not only secure livelihoods but also restore ecological balance and provide long-term security for future generations.

Forests, Civilization, and Today’s Challenges

The Minister reflected on the historical role of forests in sustaining human civilization, pointing out that unregulated exploitation, rapid industrialization, and unchecked urbanization have led to unprecedented deforestation worldwide. He described forest and land degradation as one of the greatest environmental challenges of our time.

To address this, he underscored the potential of agroforestry, non-timber forest products (NTFPs), and sustainable land-use practices to simultaneously enhance rural livelihoods and restore ecological systems. Such practices, he said, can transform local economies while combating climate change and biodiversity loss.

Knowledge Sharing and Farmer Engagement

The mela featured technical sessions where forestry experts provided insights into economically valuable agroforestry species. These included:

• Poplar and Gamhar – known for timber and plywood industries.

• Moringa and Bamboo – offering food, medicinal, and industrial applications.

• Melia Dubia, Sandalwood, Teak, Eucalyptus, and Mahogany – high-value commercial timber and medicinal uses.

Farmers’ queries on plantation techniques, soil suitability, crop integration, cultivation practices, processing, and marketing of tree-based products were addressed in interactive sessions. The exchange of knowledge equipped participants with practical strategies to expand tree-based livelihoods.

Culture Meets Conservation

To ensure wider public engagement, the event included a vibrant cultural programme. Local artists from Prayagraj staged the play “Jungle Hai to Mangal Hai”, spreading awareness about the symbiotic relationship between forests and human well-being. Folk Alha singing, magic shows, and puppet performances added to the festive atmosphere, delivering strong environmental messages in an entertaining format.

Recognising Green Champions

Progressive farmers who demonstrated leadership in tree plantation and agroforestry practices were felicitated during the mela. Their success stories served as inspiration for others, highlighting how individual efforts can collectively lead to significant ecological restoration and community prosperity.

Towards a Greener Future

The Vriksh Utpadak Mela showcased how trees can be at the heart of India’s rural development model — not only as a source of income but as a lifeline for environmental security and climate resilience. The initiative aligns with the broader goals of doubling farmers’ income, achieving carbon neutrality, and restoring degraded ecosystems under India’s commitments to global climate action.

As the Minister emphasized, sustainable forestry and tree plantation are not just environmental responsibilities but also essential strategies for healthier villages, empowered farmers, and a secure future for generations to come.