Matri Van Initiative

Matri Van Initiative, a 750-acre urban forest in Gurugram, focuses on restoring the Aravalli ecosystem through community-driven ecological efforts.

Matri Van Initiative: Urban Forest for Ecological Restoration

Syllabus: Environment, Governance (UPSC GS II & III)
Source: News On Air

Context

The Union Environment Minister launched the ‘Matri Van’ Initiative in Gurugram, a large-scale urban forest project spread across 750 acres in the Aravalli Hills, under the national campaign ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’.

What is Matri Van?

‘Matri Van’ is a theme-based urban afforestation project being developed in Gurugram, Haryana. It aims to rejuvenate the degraded Aravalli landscape through large-scale plantation and biodiversity restoration, with a strong focus on community participation.

Objectives

Restore the ecological health of urban and semi-urban areas
Promote biodiversity conservation in the Aravalli region
Encourage community-led plantation and ecological awareness
Act as a carbon sink and urban green lung to reduce pollution

Key Features of the Matri Van Initiative

1. Multi-Stakeholder Involvement

Involves CSR bodies, RWAs, NGOs, schools, MNCs, and government agencies
Promotes public-private-community partnerships in environmental restoration

2. Native Tree Plantation

Focus on planting indigenous species such as:
- Peepal, Neem, Bargad, Amaltash, Pilkhan, Gullar, Dhak, and other Aravalli-specific flora

3. Eco-Friendly Amenities

Includes:
- Nature trails
- Yoga zones
- Cycle tracks and gazebos
- Water bodies and treated water irrigation
- Flood control and water conservation structures

4. Environmental Benefits