The Nagar Van Yojana (NVY) was Launched in 2020, aims to enhance urban greenery in India. Within its first 100 days, the initiative exceeded its goal by approving 111 urban forests, or Nagar Vans, across six states and one union territory. The NVY seeks to improve city life through green spaces that offer relaxation, education, and environmental benefits, while combating climate change by enhancing air quality.
The government allocates Rs. 4 lakh per hectare for the creation and maintenance of these forests, each ranging from 10 to 50 hectares, and encourages community participation in tree-planting and educational events. The initiative emphasizes biodiversity by planting a mix of fruit-bearing, medicinal, and native trees.
Each Nagar Van will feature various components, such as Biodiversity Parks, Smriti Vans (memorial trees), Butterfly Conservatories, Herbal Gardens, and Matri Vans, associated with the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative. Looking ahead, the government plans to establish 1,000 Nagar Vans by 2027, supported by the National Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), to address urban environmental challenges like air pollution and habitat loss.