‘Matri Van’ Initiative

‘Matri Van’ Initiative : Recently, in a major step towards ecological restoration and urban sustainability, the ‘Matri Van’ initiative was launched in Gurugram, Haryana.

• About ‘Matri Van’ Initiative : A theme-based urban forest project, to be developed across 750 acres in the Aravalli hill region along the Gurugram–Faridabad Road.

o Part of the Government of India’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” programme

o It will serve as a: Green lung and carbon sink for the Delhi NCR region

- Biodiversity restoration zone, and Community engagement space with ecological, recreational, and cultural significance.

- Removal of invasive Kabuli Kikar (Prosopis juliflora)

- Plantation of native Aravalli species and long-rotation trees

- Creation of theme-based groves, including: Bodhi Vatika with Bargad, Peepal, Gular, and Pilkhan trees; Pushp Vatika for flowering trees; Sugandh Vatika with fragrant species; as well as dedicated spaces like a Medicinal Plants Grove, Bamboosetum, Cactus Garden, Butterfly Garden, Nakshatra Vatika, and Rashi Vatika.

o Significance : Play a crucial role in enhancing air quality, mitigating urban heat, promoting biodiversity, and fostering collective ecological stewardship, while also addressing the degradation of the ancient Aravalli range.