Home / Environment / Activists Seek Votes to Save Sacred Groves
Activists Seek Votes to Save Sacred Groves
4 Nov
Summary
- Activists are contesting Jaisalmer Zila Parishad elections as independents.
- The movement aims to protect traditional Oran land, sacred groves, and pastures.
- Oran lands support biodiversity, fodder, and rainwater conservation efforts.
A significant people's movement in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, has shifted its strategy from protests to political participation to safeguard the region's traditional Oran lands. Team Oran, an activist group dedicated to protecting these community pastures and ensuring their recognition in revenue records, plans to field independent candidates for all 21 seats in the upcoming Jaisalmer Zila Parishad elections. This move aims to directly engage voters and place conservation at the forefront of the electoral campaign.
Orans are historically protected sacred groves and community grazing lands in Rajasthan's western desert. These areas are crucial for biodiversity, supporting indigenous flora, wildlife, and birds. They also serve as vital fodder sources for livestock and play a key role in rainwater conservation. Environmental activists involved in the movement are entering the electoral arena to hold the government accountable for the protection and proper recording of Oran lands.
