A Lone Voice Against Deforestation
In the small village of Shakarkand, nestled in Rajasthan's Pratapgarh district, a man named Harji Meena took on an uphill battle against deforestation. Born into an ordinary family, Harji Meena, a former Panchayat Samiti member, could have lived a quiet life. But when he saw the forests around him disappearing, he couldn't stand by and watch.

For years, illegal loggers from neighboring villages had been cutting down teak trees, depleting the forest and threatening the environment. Anyone who tried to stop them faced intimidation and violence. Even local leaders hesitated to intervene. But Harji Meena refused to stay silent. He knew that if no one acted, the forest-and the livelihood of future generations-would be lost forever.

A One-Man Mission Becomes a Community Movement
Determined to make a difference, Harji Meena started protecting two forests, each spanning 50 hectares, in 1995. He understood that real change couldn't happen alone, so he formed a Forest Protection Committee to rally support.

Through regular village meetings, he tirelessly spread awareness about the importance of conservation. At first, people resisted-many saw the forest as land that could be cleared for farming. But Harji patiently explained that deforestation brought long-term losses. Slowly, minds changed. Families who once took the forest for granted became its guardians.

Transforming the Landscape-One Step at a Time
Under Harji's leadership, the village didn't just protect the forest; they revived it. Conservation projects like soil and water preservation efforts were introduced. Ponds were built, ensuring that animals and birds had access to water even in the driest months.

And it wasn't just about trees-the village also created a system for fair forest use. Every 15 days, community meetings resolved disputes, and dry wood was shared equally among families. What was once a battleground for illegal logging became a thriving ecosystem protected by the people who lived there.

A Legacy of Change
Today, Shakarkand stands as a testament to what grassroots leadership can achieve. Thanks to Harji Meena's relentless efforts, the village now enjoys a lush, green forest-a resource that will benefit generations to come.

Recognizing his unwavering dedication, the Umed Mal Lodha Environment Award 2023 honors Harji Meena and encourages the spirit of one determined person to inspire an entire community to protect and preserve nature.

Harji Meena's story isn't just about saving trees-it's about the power of perseverance, unity, and the unbreakable bond between people and their land.