Sacred Fig

Leading a record-breaking environmental drive at Science City in Ahmedabad, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah spearheaded the single-day planting of approximately 1.25 Crore trees across the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha constituency under the "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" and "Mission Five Million Trees" initiatives. The drive focused entirely on planting resilient, native species with lifespans exceeding 100 years—including the Banyan, Sheesham, Goras Ambli, and the sacred Peepal (Aśvattha). These deeply rooted, large-canopy indigenous trees were strategically selected to withstand regional elements, aiming to raise the area's green cover from 11.23% to 20% while providing enduring shade, air purification, and vital carbon sequestration for future generations.

The Sacred Fig, or Peepal tree, is a large dry season-deciduous or semi-evergreen tree. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and Indochina. It is considered sacred in Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. The tree in the photo is a young sapling being watered during a ceremonial plantation event.

The bark, leaves, and fruits are used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to treat various ailments including skin diseases, digestive issues, and inflammation. It is known for its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

It is one of the most significant trees in Indian culture and is known for releasing oxygen even at night, making it highly valued for its air-purifying qualities.