In an attempt to create long-term ecological solutions to global warming, two States have taken up mega plantation drives like never before. They are Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh.

The Maha Plantation-2019 Drive in Maharashtra seeks to plant 33 crore saplings by the end of September. "About 19 crore saplings (58% of the target) have been planted. More than 47 lakh citizens have contributed to this mission. I am confident that more than 33 crore saplings will be planted by the end of this rainy season," said Sudhir Mungantiwar, a Minister in the Devendra Fadnavis government.

Lauding the government's efforts, spiritual exponent Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev said, "The people and the Government of Maharashtra have set an example that incredible things can be done with commitment and resoluteness of action. Gives us confidence that revitalization of Waghari river with your support will soon become a reality."

On the other hand, the Government of Uttar Pradesh has resolved to complete the plantation of 22 crore saplings by the end of this month.

Can such drives lead to intended changes? Only time will tell.