A Village's Commitment to Conservation
Nestled in the heart of Rajasthan's Chittorgarh district, the small village of Nahargarh is home to 85 Bhil tribal families. For generations, their survival depended on agriculture, livestock, and the forest. But two decades ago, their surrounding land was far from the lush greenery it is today. What changed? A remarkable community-led transformation.

The Beginning of a Green Revolution

Nahargarh's forest, spread over 164.95 hectares, was once a scattered landscape with open grazing and seasonal migrations of sheep herders. The only trees standing were sparse Dhaunk (Dhawada) species. Recognizing the urgent need to revive their forest, the Village Forest Protection and Management Committee (VFMPC) of Nahargarh, in collaboration with the Forest Department, launched an ambitious conservation effort in 2001.

Planting Seeds of Change

Under the CAMPA scheme, villagers took the lead in planting saplings on 50 hectares of land. Encouraged by their success, they expanded their efforts over the next few years. By 2005, with support from the Rajasthan Forestry Biodiversity Project, they had planted 48,500 saplings across 150 hectares. To ensure long-term protection, they built stone boundary walls and implemented soil and water conservation measures.

Guardians of the Forest

One of the most inspiring aspects of this journey was the self-imposed axe ban-a strict rule preventing deforestation. Since 2002, the villagers have upheld this commitment, demonstrating their deep respect for nature. What's more, a women's sub-committee emerged as a strong force in forest conservation, proving that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility.

A Flourishing Ecosystem

Today, Nahargarh's forest stands dense and full of life. Native medicinal plants like beejasar, belpatra, amla, baheda, and neem flourish alongside towering bamboo groves. Wildlife, once displaced, has returned-rabbits, jackals, langurs, wild boars, nilgai, panthers, and bears now roam freely. Villagers, once struggling with depleting resources, now sustainably harvest amla, bilva fruit, bamboo, and grass.

A Well-Deserved Recognition

The dedication of the Village Forest Protection and Management Committee of Nahargarh has transformed barren land into a thriving forest. Their perseverance and unity have earned them the prestigious Ummedmal Lodha Environment Award (2022) in the Forest Protection and Management Committee category, along with a cash prize of ₹25,000.

A Beacon of Hope for Others

Nahargarh's journey is proof that when communities come together with determination and vision, they can create lasting change. Their story is not just about protecting a forest-it's about rebuilding a relationship with nature, securing livelihoods, and inspiring countless others to take action.

The Green Guardians of Nahargarh have shown us that true leadership starts at the grassroots. Who says small communities can't create big impacts?