What is the Khejri Bachao Andolan about?

The Khejri Bachao Andolan is an ongoing protest highlighting the plight of the Khejri tree and advocating for its protection against large-scale destruction.

What action has been taken by protesters in Rajasthan?

Protesters have organized a 'mahapadav' (sit-in) involving lakhs of people and have 29 saints currently on an indefinite fast to stop the felling of Khejri trees.

What is the historical significance of the Khejri tree in Rajasthan?

The Khejri tree holds historical significance due to the sacrifice of 363 individuals, including Amrita Devi Bishnoi, who died protecting these trees in the 18th century.

Home / Environment / Rajasthan Assembly: Urgent plea to save state tree

Rajasthan Assembly: Urgent plea to save state tree

5 Feb

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Summary

Congress MLA highlights plight of state tree Khejri in Rajasthan Assembly.
Protesters have been holding a sit-in and indefinite fast for two years.
Former CM supports movement, citing historical sacrifice for Khejri trees.

Rajasthan Assembly: Urgent plea to save state tree

In the Rajasthan Assembly on Wednesday, Congress MLA Dungar Ram Gedar brought to light the critical condition of the Khejri, the state tree, during Zero Hour. He voiced strong criticism against the state government for inaction concerning the large-scale felling of these trees, despite a sustained two-year protest by the Bishnoi community in Bikaner. Gedar stressed the necessity of a stringent law for the protection of the Khejri tree. The protest intensified with a 'mahapadav' on February 1, drawing lakhs of participants, and currently includes 29 saints on an indefinite fast. He expressed deep concern over the protesters' deteriorating health and the lack of governmental engagement.

Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot publicly backed the conservation movement, framing it as a fight for Rajasthan's ecological and cultural legacy. He lamented the unchecked destruction of Khejri trees in the name of development. Gehlot recalled the 18th-century sacrifice of Amrita Devi Bishnoi and 363 others who died protecting these trees, urging that their bravery be honored and environmental preservation be made a priority going forward.