Rapid urbanisation, shrinking green spaces, rising temperatures, deteriorating air quality, and biodiversity loss have emerged as major challenges for Indian cities. Recognising the importance of urban forests in enhancing ecological resilience and improving quality of life, the Government of India has been promoting urban forestry initiatives through programmes such as the Nagar Van Yojana and more recent theme-based projects like the Matri Van Initiative in Gurugram.The launch of Matri Van, a 750-acre urban forest in the Aravalli Hills of Gurugram under the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign, reflects India's evolving approach towards integrating ecological restoration with community participation and urban sustainability.
The Matri Van Initiative is being developed over 750 acres in the Aravalli Hill region along the Gurugram-Faridabad Road.The project seeks to create:
The project is based on a multi-stakeholder participation model, involving:
The initiative demonstrates how urban forestry can become a collaborative movement rather than merely a government programme.
According to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the Matri Van green cover is expected to function as the "Heart and Lung of Delhi NCR."The project aims to:
Particularly significant is the focus on restoring native Aravalli ecosystems by replacing invasive species such as Prosopis juliflora (Kabuli Kikar) with indigenous flora.
The initiative prioritises ecological restoration through plantation of indigenous species.Key tree species include:
Native vegetation is expected to improve habitat quality, support pollinators, and enhance long-term ecological sustainability.
A unique feature of Matri Van is the creation of specialised ecological zones.These include:
| Theme Zone | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Bodhi Vatika | Sacred and heritage tree species |
| Bamboosetum | Bamboo conservation |
| Aravalli Arboretum | Native Aravalli species |
| Pushp Vatika | Flowering trees |
| Sugandh Vatika | Fragrant plants |
| Medicinal Plants Garden | Traditional medicinal species |
| Nakshatra Vatika | Astronomical-cultural plantation |
| Rashi Vatika | Zodiac-based plantation |
| Butterfly Garden | Pollinator conservation |
| Cactus Garden | Xerophytic biodiversity |
This integrated approach combines ecology, culture, education, and recreation.
The project goes beyond afforestation and incorporates sustainable urban infrastructure.Key features include:
Such integration reflects contemporary urban forestry practices where ecological restoration is combined with public utility and climate adaptation.
To systematically promote urban forestry across the country, the Government launched the Nagar Van Yojana in 2020.The scheme was launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
The primary objective is:
The programme aligns with India's broader climate commitments and sustainable urban development goals.
The scheme encourages participation from:
Urban forests are developed through convergence between local administration and forest authorities.
According to Government data:
Urban forestry initiatives complement the objectives of Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) by promoting:
The Matri Van initiative represents a practical manifestation of Mission LiFE principles at the city level.
Urban forestry is emerging as an important policy instrument for addressing multiple urban challenges simultaneously.Projects such as Nagar Vans and Matri Van can contribute towards:
The Matri Van initiative demonstrates how urban forests can evolve into ecological, social, and cultural assets while strengthening India's commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
Lifestyle for Environment
Updated – 02 August 2025 ; 02:18 PM | News Source:
PIB Delhi – Launch of Matri Van Initiative in Gurugram ,
PIB Delhi – International Day of Forests 2025: Forests, Food and Sustainability