Known as the “Friend of Trees,” Prabha Devi has transformed a once barren landscape into a flourishing forest by planting over 500 trees. Her passion for environmental conservation showcases her deep connection to nature and community
 
This 81-Year-Old Environmentalist From Uttarakhand Has Transformed A Barren Land Into A Thriving Forest 1

Uttarakhand is facing significant deforestation, with data showing a considerable loss of forest cover, particularly between 2001 and 2023. The state has lost approximately 50,000 hectares of forest land over the past 20 years due to various developmental activities and commercial interests. This deforestation has raised several environmental concerns, including landslides and increased soil erosion. There is an urgent need not only to halt these practices but also to restore the soil. In this context, there are individuals like Prabha Devi who are making remarkable efforts to grow forests. Devi has dedicated her life to the cause of reforestation, with a particular focus on planting trees in barren and neglected lands.

______________________________________________________________________________

Read Also: How Hydroponics May Be Essential for Urban Agriculture

______________________________________________________________________________

Prabha Devi And Her Deep Connection To Nature

Prabha Devi is an inspiring 81-year-old woman hailing from the small village of Palashat in Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand, who has made a remarkable impact on her environment. Known as the “Friend of Trees,” she has dedicated herself to transforming a once barren landscape into a flourishing forest by planting over 500 trees. Her passion for afforestation and environmental conservation not only showcases her commitment to nature but also highlights her deep connection to nature and her community. After all, she hails from the state where the famous Chipko movement originated in the 1970s. This non-violent social and ecological movement aimed to protect trees and forests from commercial logging by physically embracing the trees and obstructing loggers.

Restoring Ecosystems

While not formally educated and unaware of her exact birthdate, Prabha Devi has immense knowledge about tree care and planting, acquired entirely through years of hands-on experience and keen observation of her surroundings. She understands the needs and characteristics of various tree species, making her efforts immensely effective in restoring the local ecosystem.

Her journey began with a small, barren plot that had been stripped of its ecological balance. Through years of unwavering commitment and hard work, she transformed this barren landscape into a lush, vibrant, and self-sustaining forest ecosystem.

________________________________________________________________________

Read Also : The Science of Climate Change Explained: Facts, Evidence and Proof

________________________________________________________________________

In her quest to restore the environment, Devi carefully selected a diverse array of tree species, including oak, rhododendron, cinnamon, and soap nut (reetha). This thoughtful selection not only contributed to the aesthetic appeal of the area but also significantly enhanced its biodiversity. Each species was chosen for its unique characteristics and benefits, ensuring a balanced environment that supported various forms of wildlife.

A Valuable Resource

The forest she has cultivated serves as more than just a testament to her hard work; it has become a valuable resource for the local community. It provides essential firewood for cooking and heating, as well as fodder for livestock, which is crucial for the livelihoods of many families in the area. The forest has fostered a sense of community connection, as residents now gather to enjoy and care for the natural space that Devi has created.

Her unwavering dedication has garnered her widespread recognition and respect, serving as an inspiration to many within her village and beyond. Community members often turn to her for advice on sustainable practices, and her story has attracted the attention of environmental organizations. Prabha Devi’s contributions signify not just a personal journey of resilience, but also a powerful movement towards ecological restoration and community awareness.

 

NOTE – This article was originally published in outlooktraveller and can be viewed here

 

Tags: #climate, #environment, #environmentalist, #fertilizer, #forest, #getgreengetgrowing, #gngagritech, #greenstories, #growforests, #nature, #plant, #planting, #plantingtrees, #soil, #uttarakhand, #wildlife