A Village That Chose to Fight for Its Forests
Deep in the Sayra forest range of Udaipur district, the small village of Palasma has proven that real change begins at the grassroots. What started as a simple commitment to protect their land has turned into a decades-long battle to reclaim, restore, and rejuvenate the forest. The Forest Protection and Management Committee of Palasma has shown the world that even ordinary villagers, when united by purpose, can make an extraordinary impact.

Turning Barren Land Into a Thriving Forest
Formed in 1991, the committee took on the responsibility of safeguarding a vast 522.8-hectare forest area. With unwavering determination, they transformed 350 hectares of barren land into lush greenery under the Janta Van and Aravali plantation schemes. It wasn't just about planting trees-it was about bringing life back to a forest that had been lost. Today, the area is home to diverse species of trees and wildlife, a testament to the villagers' relentless efforts.

Standing Strong Against Encroachment
The journey wasn't easy. Encroachment threatened the forest as 16 families illegally occupied and farmed the land. But the committee refused to back down. Facing social, caste, and political pressure, they fought legal battles from 1992 to 2014, determined to preserve what rightfully belonged to nature. Even when the government ordered land allotments to the occupiers, the committee took legal action to have them canceled, ensuring the forest remained untouched.

A Self-Sustaining Model of Conservation
Beyond protection, the villagers turned conservation into a means of livelihood. Over 4 lakh saplings, mostly bamboo, have been planted under their watch. Since 2004-05, income from bamboo and other forest produce has been carefully managed through community discussions, funding essential village needs while keeping the forest intact. Their success has earned them divisional and district-level forestry awards, cementing their status as true guardians of the environment.

Recognizing an Inspiring Grassroots Movement
Palasma's story is a powerful reminder that true leadership isn't about titles-it's about action. The Umed Mal Lodha Environment Award proudly honored the Palasma Forest Protection and Management Committee with a cash prize for their outstanding efforts in forest protection. Their journey of resilience, unity, and determination stands as an inspiration for villages across India.

Palasma's green revolution isn't just about trees-it's about a community that refused to give up. And that is a story worth celebrating.