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92-Year-Old Woman Grows Forest From Barren Land
11 Jan
Summary
- Devaki Amma planted and nurtured a five-acre forest over four decades.
- The forest, Tapovanam, now thrives with diverse plant and animal life.
- Tapovanam serves as a free medicinal garden and educational space.
In Alappuzha, Kerala, Devaki Amma, aged 92, has single-handedly cultivated a five-acre forest, Tapovanam, over the past four decades. Following a severe accident 44 years ago that ended her farming career, she found a new purpose in transforming barren land into a lush green sanctuary, planting each sapling by hand.
Tapovanam has evolved into a vibrant ecosystem, housing numerous tree species, medicinal plants, and supporting diverse fish and bird populations. Notably, it features unique plants like the kamandalu and peacock plant. The forest now functions as a self-sustaining environment, astonishing visitors with its density in a sandy coastal region.
Beyond its ecological significance, Tapovanam operates as a free medicinal garden and an educational resource for the community. Devaki Amma believes nature's gifts should be freely shared, providing healing plants to visitors. Her lifelong dedication showcases how individual commitment can create a powerful, positive impact on the environment.
