The Umed Mal Lodha Memorial Trust, established in 1999, stands as a beacon of recognition for unsung heroes dedicated to environmental conservation and social transformation. Created in memory of Shri Umed Mal Lodha, a retired government officer, environmental advocate, and social reformer, the trust has been pivotal in honoring grassroots leaders who work tirelessly for the betterment of society and the environment.

Shri Umed Mal Lodha's life was marked by service and selflessness. After retiring from the Rajasthan government in 1982 as the Joint Director of the Upliftment Department, he worked with Birla Cement Works, Jodhpur, focusing on afforestation and land reclamation. He also joined Seva Mandir in 1985, where he played a crucial role in organizing technical development programs for rural communities. His deep commitment to social causes and environmental protection left an indelible impact, and following his passing in 1998, the trust was founded to carry forward his legacy.

The Umed Mal Lodha Memorial Trust has always aimed to promote research, understanding, and initiatives focused on social transformation, empowering citizens to reshape societal structures in more democratic and egalitarian ways. The trust is particularly dedicated to amplifying the voices of rural leaders, ensuring that their contributions to environmental conservation, land use, and resource management are recognized.

Recognizing Rural Leaders for Environmental Stewardship

The trust's flagship initiative, the Umed Mal Lodha Environment Award, is designed to honor rural leaders who have made long-term, meaningful contributions to their communities. These leaders work in areas such as water resource management, forest conservation, and reclamation of barren lands. The award is presented with a cash prize and a certificate at a public ceremony, celebrating individuals who demonstrate extraordinary courage, dedication, and leadership in improving their environments.

Since its inception, the trust has honored over 190 individuals, shining a light on the quiet yet powerful work done in rural areas. In 2024, marking the Silver Jubilee of the trust, applications for the award were expanded to include all of Rajasthan, making it even more inclusive and accessible.
Transparent and Rigorous Selection Process

The selection of awardees follows a transparent and credible process. Proposals for forestry and environmental work are invited from various institutions, including Seva Mandir, Forest Protection Committees, and village groups. A technical selection committee, composed of experts in the field, meticulously reviews each proposal and verifies the work on the ground before submitting the final recommendations for approval. This ensures that the individuals honored by the trust truly embody the values of leadership, sustainability, and community empowerment.
Honoring the Lives and Contributions of Awardees

In addition to the award ceremony, the trust has published two significant books that showcase the lives and contributions of honored individuals. Gudari Ke Lal by Nandita Roy and Silver Fodder by Firoz Ardalan depict the stories of rural leaders who have dedicated their lives to conservation and sustainability. These books offer a deep insight into the challenges faced by rural communities and the impact of their selfless work.

Seva Mandir's Role in Empowering Rural Leaders

Through its collaboration with Seva Mandir, the trust has been able to support and empower village leaders in various environmental initiatives. Seva Mandir's work in Rajasthan, particularly in forest management and land reclamation, has had a profound impact on local communities. By working alongside village groups, the organization has facilitated access to resources, training, and capacity-building efforts that have transformed the way communities manage their natural resources.

The Umed Mal Lodha Memorial Trust continues to serve as a platform for recognizing and supporting grassroots leaders. Through its awards and ongoing efforts, it highlights the crucial role of local leaders in driving positive environmental change and social development. As the trust moves forward, it remains committed to its mission of promoting sustainable practices and empowering rural communities, ensuring that the work of these unsung heroes is never forgotten.