An integral part of every Sikkimese:

A visionary environment conservation initiative of the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Sikkim, the State Green Mission completed its 8th year in Sikkim in June, 2013.  It's concept and holistic aims makes Sikkim the undisputed leader in green measures all over the country.
Saplings of fruit bearing tree species and ornamental flowering species in lakhs have been planted across the State. The mission engages every Sikkimese in avenue plantation and beautification of all vacant and waste lands asserting the international recognition of Sikkim as an incomparable Green State.
Just before the onset of monsoons, people from all walks of life gather and undertake plantation drives. From policy makers to students, NGOs to individuals, the old and the young participate enthusiastically in the State Green Mission.
Avenue plantation, under the State Green Mission, not only protects roads from slides but also helps in maintaining an aesthetic beauty for the travelers. The people-oriented mission lasting for a fortnight has been a resounding success every year and from 2013 onwards is celebrated as 'Paryavaran Mahatsov' as announced by the Hon'ble Chief Minister.
The festival is observed from June 15 to 30 every year. Awareness on environment protection accompanies each plantation drive.
In the first 'Paryavaran Mahatsov', around 2.6 lakh saplings of various tree species was planted across Sikkim. The survival rate is between 70 and 80 percent. The saplings were provided by the Forest department which is the nodal Department for the Mahatsov.
The Green drive depends for its success on public participation. The Hon'ble Chief Minister believes that there is no better fencing than social fencing. The mission greatly supplements the image of Sikkim as an ultimate ecotourism destination not only in India but the world over.
The State Green Mission, a first in the nation, has become an integral part of the people of Sikkim.
This is an initiative exclusively meant to maintain the green cover and cleanliness across the State through people's participation which has been extensive and overwhelming.
Consequently, Sikkim's forest cover has increased by over 3.53% from 44.06% in 1995 to 47.59% in 2009. Sikkim is being consistently rated as the Greenest State in the country on the basis of year-round assessment by reputed centres of Excellence and environmental bodies as "most sustainable".