Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday planted a Kadamb sapling at his official residence, 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, to mark his 75th birthday. The sapling was a special gift from King Charles III of the United Kingdom, symbolising the enduring friendship between the two nations and their shared commitment to environmental sustainability.
The Kadamb tree, presented to the Prime Minister on September 17, was inspired by the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative, which encourages individuals to plant a tree in their mother’s name as a tribute to maternal care and as a contribution to environmental protection.
In a post on X, the British High Commission highlighted the gesture, “His Majesty The King has been graciously pleased to send a Kadamb tree to India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his birthday. The gesture, inspired by PM Modi’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative, reflects their shared commitment to environmental conservation.”
The High Commission further recalled that during PM Modi’s visit to the UK in July this year, he had gifted King Charles a “Sonoma” tree as part of the same initiative. “Collaboration on climate and clean energy is a key pillar of the Commonwealth and the UK-India partnership, as set out by the two Prime Ministers in Vision 2035,” the Commission noted.
According to an official statement by the Government of India, the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative serves a dual purpose – honouring the nurturing role of mothers and promoting ecological balance. Much like a mother, trees provide nourishment, protection, and a future for the next generation. By planting a tree in honour of one’s mother, individuals create a lasting tribute while contributing to a greener planet.
(With inputs from ANI)