LUCKNOW, June 29 -- : Uttar Pradesh is set to plant more than 40 crore saplings in 2026, around four crore more than last year, as part of its annual plantation drive.

According to the forest department, over five crore saplings have already been planted. The remaining 35 crore are expected to be planted during the state's flagship plantation campaign, likely to be held in the second week of July.

Chief conservator of forests (Headquarters) Aditi Sharma said 52.44 crore saplings are ready for planting in more than 1,900 nurseries across the state. Preparations at over 5.25 lakh plantation sites are in the final stage.

She said the forest department will plant 14.5 crore saplings, while 26 other government departments will plant another...