New Delhi, April 22: Marking World Earth Day, the Ministry of Home Affairs highlighted a major nationwide afforestation initiative undertaken through the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), underscoring the role of collective action in environmental conservation.

Officials said that in January 2020, the Ministry launched a large-scale plantation drive involving all seven CAPFs, mobilizing their combined strength of nearly 9.69 lakh personnel. Over the past six years, the forces have planted more than 7 crore saplings across the country, contributing significantly to increasing green cover and promoting ecological balance.
The plantation campaign has been carried out in diverse terrains—from border areas and forest regions to urban and semi-urban locations—reflecting the wide operational footprint of the CAPFs. Personnel have actively participated in planting and nurturing saplings, ensuring long-term sustainability rather than one-time activity.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to integrate environmental responsibility into the functioning of security forces. Alongside their primary duties, CAPF units have been engaging in awareness drives, community participation programmes, and conservation activities to encourage eco-friendly practices among citizens.
Officials emphasized that such efforts demonstrate how institutions can contribute meaningfully to climate action while setting examples for society. The campaign also reinforces the idea that environmental protection is a shared responsibility, cutting across professions and roles.
The Ministry noted that even small individual contributions, when multiplied across large groups, can create a substantial positive impact. The success of the plantation drive stands as a testament to coordinated action and sustained commitment toward a greener and more sustainable future.
As the world observes Earth Day, the initiative serves as a reminder that safeguarding the planet requires continuous effort, with both institutions and individuals playing vital roles in preserving natural resources for future generations.