Image Source: X Account/@NarendraModi/@MEAIndia

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni planted a Black Mulberry tree in Rome on May 21 during Modi’s visit to Italy. The plantation was carried out under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative launched by the Government of India.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs said the Black Mulberry tree, known as “Krishna Toot” in India, was chosen because of its culinary, medicinal and cultural significance in both India and Italy.

Tree Plantation Held During India-Italy Bilateral Talks

The plantation ceremony took place alongside bilateral talks between the two leaders in Rome. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, India and Italy reviewed cooperation in trade, investment, defence, technology, energy, space, research and education.

Both countries also elevated their bilateral relationship to a “Special Strategic Partnership.” Officials said the two sides agreed to hold regular meetings between leaders and ministers to review progress under the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029.

Prime Minister Modi said India-Italy relations had advanced in sectors including trade, space and technology. Giorgia Meloni said the partnership between the two countries was gaining a broader dimension through political and economic cooperation.

“Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” Campaign Reaches International Stage

The “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign encourages people to plant trees in honor of their mothers. The initiative was launched in India as part of efforts to promote environmental awareness and tree plantation activities.

The Rome event marked an international extension of the campaign. The Ministry of External Affairs described the plantation as another step toward promoting environmental consciousness and sustainable living.