Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav attended Haryana's 77th Van Mahotsav celebrations at Manesar on August 7, 2026, alongside Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, State Minister for Environment and Forests Rao Narbir Singh, public representatives, and senior state officials. Minister Yadav commended the Haryana government for actively implementing Centre's recommendations to protect the Aravallis and prevent air pollution, noting that the state had taken cognizance of his recent recommendations which included mandatory solid waste management rules for housing societies, installation of Online Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems (OCEMS) and Air Pollution Control Devices (APCDs) by industries, implementation of smart traffic management, and greening activities.
Chief Minister Saini emphasized that Van Mahotsav represents an opportunity to repay debt to nature rather than merely a tree planting program, announcing a target of 1.4 crore trees for the state under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative with participation from various stakeholders. The 2026 celebrations featured simultaneous District-Level Van Mahotsav programs across all Haryana districts, attended by State Ministers, Members of Parliament, MLAs, Board and Corporation Chairpersons, Deputy Commissioners, and other public representatives.
The event included sapling planting by dignitaries, administration of the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' pledge, and the release of two publications: 'Haryana Forest News' and 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam'. Winners of quiz, painting, and other competitions held on the theme of 'Swachh Haryana, Harit Haryana' were awarded during the ceremony. Minister Yadav also specifically congratulated Haryana sportspersons, particularly girls, for their achievements in the recently concluded Commonwealth Games.