The present titled “Contribution of Bishnoi community in environment protection: A geographical study” attempts to analysis role played by the community in Rajasthan with special reference to the Khejarli village incident of the Khejarli tree problem. Khejarli village situated in western Thar Desert of Rajasthan. Amrita Devi native of this village was the first environmentalist of Rajasthan in the Bishnoi community.
Khejarli village situated in Rajasthan, was initiated for wildlife protection and eco-conversation; Bishnoi’s are the First Environmentalists of India. King Abhay Singh of Jodhpur ordered trees to be cut for palace construction. Amrita Devi Bishnoi opposed the tree felling by hugging the trees. Her daughters, Asu, Ratni, and Bhagu joined her in protest. The Bishnoi promotes conservation of trees and wildlife. Sir saantheroonkhrahe to bheesastonjaann. “Even if the head is sacrificed (meaning, if one's life is given), and a tree is saved, then it's still a cheap bargain”. 363 Bishnoi’s were killed while trying to protect the Khejri trees. It’s known as khejarli massacre. This proverb, rooted in the traditions of the Bishnoi community of Rajasthan, India, emphasizes the profound importance they place on environmental protection and the conservation of trees, particularly the Khejri tree. It signifies that saving trees and protecting the environment is considered a paramount duty, even if it requires the ultimate sacrifice of one's own life. The proverb also serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by individuals within the Bishnoi community who laid down their lives to protect the environment and trees.
Bishnoi, Khejri, Wildlife, Jambhoji, Amrita Devi, Forest Conservation
Dr. Rahul. Contribution of Bishnoi Community in Environmental Protection: A Geographical Study. Indian Journal of Modern Research and Reviews. 2026; 4(SP1):245-249
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