From Humble Beginnings to a Green Mission
In the heart of Jhadol tehsil, a tribal-dominated region of Udaipur, Rajasthan, a young man named Dhanraj Garasiya has been quietly leading a revolution-one tree at a time. Born in 1990 in the small village of Bobrawada, Dhanraj grew up in poverty. Yet, his father and grandfather instilled in him a deep respect for education and the environment. He pursued his MA in Sanskrit, but his true calling lay beyond textbooks-in the forests and communities around him.

Rooted in Tradition, Growing for the Future
Dhanraj's passion for environmental conservation was not a recent discovery-it had always been part of his life. Recognizing the deep connection between folk traditions and nature, he inspired villagers to plant saffron on forest land as a means of protecting their green cover. His efforts didn't stop there. When illegal tree felling became a concern, he found an innovative solution- spraying natural deterrents to prevent the practice.

The Bamboo Satyagraha: A Turning Point
2016 marked a significant milestone in his journey. The Bamboo Cutting Satyagraha in Amiwada village became a rallying point for environmental conservation in the region. It was here that Dhanraj's resolve strengthened, and he realized that collective action could create a lasting impact.

Advocating for Forest Rights
Dhanraj's work took another leap forward in 2019 when he joined Van Utthan Sansthan Jhadol, an organization dedicated to forest conservation. Alongside his colleagues, he traveled to every village in Jhadol block, educating people about community forest rights. His efforts bore fruit- 17 villages were granted these rights, ensuring that forests remained in the hands of those who depended on them most.

Empowering the Next Generation
Beyond environmental efforts, Dhanraj is deeply committed to social change. As part of the Child Line project, he worked tirelessly to connect destitute children with education, giving them a brighter future. His belief in the power of youth extends to his conservation efforts as well. Today, young people in Bobrawada and neighboring villages stand guard over their forests, ensuring that no wet wood is cut and that nature thrives.

Digital Activism: Spreading Awareness Online
In an age where digital platforms shape narratives, Dhanraj has taken his mission online. His YouTube channel, "Panarva Jagran," is a hub for environmental awareness, featuring short films that inspire action. His ability to blend traditional wisdom with modern tools makes him a unique force for change.

A Well-Deserved Honor
In recognition of his incredible contributions, Dhanraj Garasiya was awarded the Ummedmal Lodha Environment Award in 2022. This honor, along with a cash prize of Rs. 5,000, serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to protecting the environment.

Dhanraj's journey is proof that true leadership comes not from titles, but from action. His story is an inspiration to countless young changemakers across India, reminding us all that with passion and perseverance, we can create a greener, more sustainable world.