LUCKNOW, July 11 -- Despite a 16% rainfall deficit, recent monsoon showers have created favourable conditions for Uttar Pradesh's mega plantation drive on Sunday, during which 35 crore saplings will be planted across the state, forest officials said.

"The showers received across the state between July 2 and July 10 have reduced heat in the upper layer of the soil, making it conducive for faster root development, officials said. Light rainfall has also been forecast across Uttar Pradesh over the next seven days, which would further aid the survival and growth of the saplings," said Aditi Sharma, chief conservator of forests (headquarters).

"In fact, we do not need heavy rainfall for a few days after the saplings are planted. Moderate rai...