What is vanamhotsava?

Van Mahotsav, celebrated in India during the first week of July, is an annual tree-planting festival aimed at raising awareness about the importance of trees and forests. The name translates to "Tree Plantation Day," and it encourages individuals, communities, and organizations to plant trees and promote environmental conservation. Initiated in 1950 by India's then Union Minister for Agriculture, K.M. Munshi, the festival emphasizes the ecological benefits of afforestation and aims to combat deforestation and climate change. Through various activities, it seeks to inspire a sense of responsibility towards the environment.