In a remarkable display of collective action for a greener future amid climate change threat, the 128 Infantry Battalion and the Ecological Task Force of the Territorial Army recently set a World Record by planting over 500,000 saplings in just one hour at Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav congratulated the Army for the remarkable achievement, posted on the social media X, “128 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) Ecological Task Force of Rajputana Rifles planted over 5,19,130 saplings on 22.09.2024 from 1100hrs to 1200hrs under “Special Plantation Drive” at Jaisalmer under the Prime Minister’s campaign “Ek Ped Maa ke Naam” and the TA’s outreach program “Bhagidari & Zimmedari,” aimed to enhance ecological restoration and promote environmental awareness among the local communities.”
He also congratulated multiple stakeholders including the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, Border Security Force, District Administration of Jaisalmer, Police and Border Wing Home Guards, Sankalp Taru NGO, and students from various educational institutions, highlighting their dedication to environmental conservation and reforestation efforts.
“The plantation drive was held simultaneously at seven different locations across Jaisalmer, demonstrating a united effort towards community development and environmental conservation.
“Under the banner of “Protect Trees” and the motto “Those who protect the trees are protected,” the Territorial Army unit achieved several world records, provisionally recognized by the World Book of Records, London.
“These include the most saplings planted by a team in one hour, the most saplings planted by a team of women in one hour, and the largest number of people planting saplings simultaneously at a single venue,” said the statement from the Ministry.
The Accreditation Agency i.e. World Book of Records were present in the field and verified the plantation done and certified the achievement. The Ecological Task Force also received the provisional award from the World Book of Records after the plantation, the statement added.
