NHAI Launches ‘Arogya Van’ Along Highways

• 09 Apr 2026

In April 2026, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) announced the ‘Arogya Van’ initiative to develop thematic medicinal tree plantations on vacant land parcels along National Highways.

Key Points

• About the Initiative:
  • ‘Arogya Van’ focuses on plantation of medicinal trees.
  • Aims to enhance biodiversity and ecological sustainability.
• First Phase Details:
  • Covers 17 land parcels across multiple states.
  • Total area: 62.8 hectares.
  • Around 67,462 medicinal trees to be planted.
• States Covered:
  • Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi-NCR, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat.
  • Karnataka, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh.
• Tree Species Identified:
  • Around 36 medicinal species.
  • Includes Neem, Amla, Imli, Jamun, Lemon, Gular, Maulsari.
• Ecological Benefits:
  • Supports pollinators, birds, and microfauna.
  • Enhances ecosystem resilience and roadside ecology.
• Plantation Strategy:
  • Focus on areas near toll plazas, interchanges, and highways.
  • Based on agro-climatic suitability.
  • Aligns with Government landscaping guidelines.
• Future Expansion:
  • 188 hectares of vacant land identified for plantation.
  • Planned during monsoon for better survival rates.
• Cultural & Educational Value:
  • Promotes traditional systems like Ayurveda.
  • Acts as a living repository of medicinal plants.
  • Raises public awareness about indigenous knowledge.