To mark World Environment Day 2025, the Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA) organised a special tree plantation drive today under the theme ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ at Central Waqf Bhawan, Saket, New Delhi.

The event was led by Union Minister of Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju.He was joined by Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri George Kurian, and Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs, Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar, along with senior officials of the Ministry and Central Waqf Council. The initiative aimed to encourage citizens to plant a tree in honour of their mothers, blending emotional tribute with environmental responsibility.

In his address to the media, Shri Kiren Rijiju emphasised India’s global leadership in ecological conservation.

The Minister stated that India is making significant contributions to increasing the green cover through plantation drives etc. We are not just committed to preserving the environment, we are actively reclaiming and restoring ecological balance, he said .

The Minister also underlined the government’s continued efforts to empower minority institutions like the Central Waqf Council (CWC) and ensure transparent governance. Referring to recent legislative progress, he highlighted the Waqf Amendment Act 2025, which strengthens the legal and administrative framework for managing Waqf properties.

“We aim to make the Central Waqf Council more robust and responsive in its service to the community,” he added.

During the interaction, Shri Rijiju announced the upcoming launch of the ‘UMEED’ Central Portal, scheduled to go live on 6th June, 2025. The portal will facilitate the digitisation and registration of Waqf properties, enhancing transparency, governance and utilisation.

“State Governments and Waqf Boards must actively upload and manage data to ensure that over 9 lakh Waqf properties are utilised meaningfully, especially for the welfare of women and children,” he urged.

The Minister also took a moment to express condolences for the victims of the recent tragic incident in Bengaluru.

The plantation drive saw active participation from all levels of the Ministry. Officials and staff members planted saplings in the name of their mothers, reinforcing the emotional and symbolic depth of the initiative. The drive was not just a ceremonial gesture but a meaningful action towards promoting sustainable practices and deepening the community’s bond with nature.

The Ministry’s observance of World Environment Day through ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ highlighted its broader commitment to environmental stewardship, inclusivity, and responsive governance.

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SS/ISA

Rijiju Press Release