Guwahati, June 5: Assam surpassed its ambitious target of planting one crore saplings on World Environment Day, recording the plantation of more than 1.2 crore saplings across the state within eight hours.

The large-scale drive was powered primarily by lakhs of women associated with Self-Help Groups (SHGs), alongside local communities, government departments and volunteers, making it one of the state’s largest citizen-led environmental campaigns.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma lauded the contribution of women participants, describing the achievement as a reflection of Assam’s collective commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.

The plantation campaign forms part of the state’s broader efforts to expand green cover and strengthen climate resilience through community participation. Officials said the initiative witnessed extensive mobilisation at the grassroots level, with plantation activities carried out simultaneously across districts.

While the scale of participation drew widespread attention, the long-term success of the exercise will depend on the survival and maintenance of the saplings in the years ahead.

The campaign adds to Assam’s ongoing afforestation efforts and underscores the growing role of community-driven initiatives in addressing environmental challenges.