Chief Minister Narendra Modi along with Forest Minister, dignitaries and people planted saplings and launched Gujarat's 61st Swarnim Van Mahotsav today at Palitana. Chief Minister appealed people to go back to nature and become tree-lovers.

A Pavak-Van (Purifying Forest) is planned to be developed at Palitana in 17 acres of area with about 9560 trees of 51 different species. Trees will be grown here in different categories like - trees that are associated with the self-realization of Jain Tirthankaras, trees associated with zodiac signs and constellations, trees affecting the parts of human body etc.

Chief Minister said that today when materialistic approach has troubled the humanity with the issues of global warming and climate change, people will have to adopt Indian ethos and relate themselves with various elements of nature. He also honored people giving significant contribution in tree-planting with Vanpandit award.

Environment and Forest Minister Mangubhai Patel elaborated over the purpose behind celebrating Van Mahotsav and exuded hope that devotees coming Palitana will also visit the Pavak-Van.

MPs, Chairman of Palitana Municipality, Mayor of Bhavnagar along with dignitaries and people in large number were present on occasion.