August 11, 2026

2026

The real reasons why Taylor Swift skipped the Super Bowl halftime stage

The real reasons why Taylor Swift skipped the Super Bowl halftime stage

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Taylor Swift, the musical phenomenon beloved worldwide, has opted out of the Super Bowl halftime spectacle for several reasons—including the extensive schedule of her Eras Tour, business ties with competitive labels, and a focus on completing her album re-recordings. With her tour now behind her, a Super Bowl appearance seems increasingly likely. Taylor Swift will…

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Cancer, Weekly Horoscope, February 08 to February 14, 2026: Experience a homely and emotional journey

Cancer, Weekly Horoscope, February 08 to February 14, 2026: Experience a homely and emotional journey

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Cancer natives, this week carries a homely, emotional tone, with strong lunar influence shaping your moods and decisions. The beginning of the week feels comforting yet busy. Matters related to home, property, and family take centre stage. You may think about buying household items, redecorating, or even planning long-term investments like property. Support from your…

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‘Tamil is India’s link to the world’: PM Modi addresses Indian diaspora in Malaysia; highlights cultural ties

‘Tamil is India’s link to the world’: PM Modi addresses Indian diaspora in Malaysia; highlights cultural ties

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, raise their hands at the Indian diaspora event in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while interacting with the Indian community in Kuala Lumpur, on Saturday, highlighted the deep cultural and emotional ties between India and Malaysia and praised the Indian…

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Khejri Bachao Andolan In the heat of Rajasthan’s desert districts, a tree has become the focal point of a widening confrontation. Markets have shut, saints have gone on strike, political rivals have shared protest stages, and thousands have gathered under open skies to demand its protection.What began in Bikaner as a local objection to the alleged felling of khejri trees for solar power projects has since evolved into the ‘Khejri Bachao Andolan’, a statewide campaign pressing for stricter legal safeguards and an immediate ban on cutting the species. The movement has drawn support across party lines, producing a rare moment of political convergence.The khejri, botanically known as Prosopis cineraria and recognised as Rajasthan’s state tree, occupies a distinctive place in the ecology of the Thar desert. Amid the ongoing protests, chief minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, assuring the protection of the khejri, termed the tree as the state’s “Kalpavriksha,” a wish-fulfilling tree in Indian tradition. In an arid landscape where survival is closely tied to ecology, the reference reaffirms the tree’s symbolic and practical importance. For many communities in western Rajasthan, the debate now extends beyond development policy into questions of history, identity and survival. Protestors carried posters featuring a revered proverb in the Bishnoi community: “Sir saanthe rukh rahe to bhi sasto jaan” (If a tree can be saved, even at the cost of one’s head, consider it a bargain). (PTI)How the agitation unfoldedThe present phase of the movement intensified in early February, when over 360 saints and local residents began a hunger strike in Bikaner, demanding an immediate ban on the felling of khejri trees for solar power projects. The protest site was initially the Polytechnic College ground near the Collectorate before shifting to the Bishnoi Dharamshala, where the hunger strike continues.In Bikaner, markets remained closed for hours on Monday after a call by trader associations. Government and private schools in urban areas observed a half-day holiday in solidarity. Thousands gathered at the Polytechnic College ground before marching towards the Collectorate, where organisers announced an indefinite sit-in.Protesters came not only from different districts of Rajasthan but also from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. Organisers said they had arranged food for nearly one lakh participants, with hundreds of volunteers handling logistics. Police deployed additional forces, erected barricades near the Collectorate and kept water cannons on standby. Despite the scale and tensions, the protest remained peaceful. Environmental activists and members of the Bishnoi community participate in the Save Khejri Movement at Polytechnic College, protesting against the proposed cutting of Khejri trees for a solar power plant, in Bikaner. (PTI)Four protesters were admitted to Prince Bijay Singh Memorial Hospital as their health deteriorated during the hunger strike, while several others received medical assistance at camps set up near the site. Mokhram Dharaniya, one of the hospitalised protesters, said, “People are sitting on a hunger strike, including me. Our protest will continue until our demands are met.”The trigger? Solar expansion At the centre of the agitation are allegations that large numbers of khejri trees have been cut to facilitate solar power projects in western Rajasthan. The region has emerged as a hub for renewable energy, given its high solar irradiance and availability of land. While solar development is central to India’s energy transition goals, protesters argue that project implementation has come at the cost of ecologically vital trees.Tensions escalated when the state government announced a restriction on felling khejri trees only in the Jodhpur and Bikaner divisions. Protesters rejected the move as inadequate, demanding a blanket statewide ban. During one address by a government representative, protesters reportedly took away the microphone, insisting on a written assurance. Environmental activists and members of the Bishnoi community take part in the ‘Save Khejri Movement’, protesting against the proposed cutting of Khejri trees for a solar power plant, in Bikaner. (PTI Photo)Minister for skill, employment and entrepreneurship KK Bishnoi and State Animal Welfare Board chairman Jaswant Bishnoi visited the Bishnoi Dharamshala and offered juice to the hunger strikers in an attempt to persuade them to break their fast. The minister said the government was ready to provide a written commitment and appealed to protesters to end the hunger strike. However, saints on the stage refused to withdraw without formal documentation.Agitation leader Parsaram Bishnoi said, “The hunger strike did not end. The government order was incomplete as it failed to cover the entire state.” Former minister Bhanwar Singh Bhati said: “All sections of society participating in the agitation decided to continue until a complete ban on cutting Khejri trees was imposed across Rajasthan.”Storm in the assemblyThe issue has resonated in the Rajasthan Assembly. Congress MLA Dungar Ram Gedar raised the matter during Zero Hour, accusing the government of failing to act despite a persistent two-year protest led by the Bishnoi community in Bikaner. “Khejri being the state tree, there is an urgent need for a strict law to protect it,” Gedar said.Independent MLA Ravindra Singh Bhati stated that the matter was already under discussion in the assembly. “Bhagat Singh (the Indian freedom fighter) said that sometimes a blast is needed to make the voice heard. If it takes gheraoing the Assembly to save khejri, I will be at the forefront,” he said.Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma told the assembly that his government was drafting a conservation law for the khejri tree, which he described as the state’s “Kalpavriksha”. “In August, saints from Bikaner, Phalodi, Jodhpur and Nagaur met me. Following that, I instructed officials to prepare the draft legislation. The process is under way, and it will soon be presented in the assembly,” he said.The chief minister also used the assembly session to defend his government’s broader record, speaking about economic growth, recruitment reforms and water supply projects. However, protesters have maintained that until a formal statewide ban is issued, the agitation will continue.Former chief minister and senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot expressed support for the public movement, describing the indiscriminate cutting of khejri trees in the name of development as “extremely painful and unacceptable.” He recalled the historical sacrifice associated with the tree and said environmental protection must be prioritised.In a development seen as politically significant, former chief minister Vasundhara Raje publicly backed the movement that has put her own party, the BJP, in the dock.Sharing a photograph of herself worshipping a khejri tree, she wrote, “I also worship the Khejri tree. Rising above politics, we should all come forward to protect it. We must save it. I stand with everyone in the campaign to save the Khejri tree and the Oran (grazing land).” She also quoted a proverb revered in the Bishnoi community: “Sir saanthe rukh rahe to bhi sasto jaan” (If a tree can be saved, even at the cost of one’s head, consider it a bargain).Observers have noted that her intervention has added to political pressure on the state government. Vasundhara Raje shared a photo of herself performing a ritual puja, while pledging cross-party support to protect these trees and associated Oran grazing lands from development threats.The historical memory: Khejarli and Amrita DeviAny discussion of the khejri in Rajasthan inevitably returns to the events of 1730 in the village of Khejarli near Jodhpur. According to historical accounts, 363 members of the Bishnoi community, led by Amrita Devi Bishnoi, sacrificed their lives to prevent the felling of khejri trees ordered for royal construction.The episode, often referred to as the Khejarli massacre, is widely regarded as one of the earliest recorded instances of environmental resistance. Amrita Devi is said to have declared that the loss of her head would be a small price to save a tree. Her sacrifice and that of the others form a cornerstone of Bishnoi identity and environmental ethics in the region. According to historical accounts, 363 members of the Bishnoi community, led by Amrita Devi Bishnoi, sacrificed their lives to prevent the felling of khejri trees ordered for royal construction.Protesters in the current agitation have repeatedly invoked this legacy. Even Ashok Gehlot referred to the sacrifice of 363 individuals, including Amrita Devi Bishnoi, and said their legacy should be honoured.Ecological significanceThe khejri is uniquely adapted to arid (extremely dry) and semi-arid climates. It has a deep root system that allows it to access groundwater and survive prolonged drought. Unlike many other species, it does not compete aggressively with crops and is often grown in agricultural fields in a traditional agroforestry system. An agroforestry system is a land-use practice where trees are grown alongside crops or livestock on the same land to improve productivity and sustainability.Its leaves, known as “loong,” are used as fodder for livestock. Its pods, called “sangri,” are a staple ingredient in traditional Rajasthani cuisine, particularly in the dish Ker Sangri. The wood is used as fuel and timber, while its bark and other parts have been used in traditional medicine. The Khejri tree (Generative image)Ecologically, the tree improves soil fertility by fixing nitrogen, reduces desertification by stabilising sand dunes and provides shade in extreme heat. In regions where annual rainfall is minimal, it plays a crucial role in sustaining both human and animal life.Given these attributes, many in Rajasthan see the khejri not just as a tree but as a symbol of resilience and survival in a harsh environment.Legal framework and demandsCurrently, khejri trees are protected under various forest and environmental regulations, but protesters argue that enforcement is inconsistent and that ambiguities in existing laws create loopholes. Former Luni MLA Mahendra Vishnoi said, “Confusion exists in current laws concerning khejri conservation. The penalties must be precise and severe. Without a fear of the law, this destruction will persist.”Environmental activist Mokhram Dharniya alleged administrative inaction. “The administration has betrayed us repeatedly. Over the past year, we have held numerous protests, receiving assurances each time, while the trees continue to be axed. We will not permit the cutting of khejri anymore,” he said.One of the demands emerging from the agitation is a provision imposing a fine of Rs 1 lakh for violations. Activists have also called for a temporary statewide ban on felling until a comprehensive conservation law is enacted.Spread of the movementThe agitation has extended beyond Bikaner. In Barmer, protesters gathered at the Collectorate, and some youths climbed the gate and raised slogans after police closed the premises. A memorandum addressed to the chief minister was submitted.The movement has also taken on a deeply personal dimension for some families. Following the death of environmental activist Radheshyam Bishnoi in a road accident last year, his mother Ratni Devi and wife Nirma Bishnoi have continued his work and are now on a hunger strike demanding protection for khejri trees. Members of the Bishnoi community during an indefinite hunger strike, demanding a tree protection bill in the ongoing assembly session and a complete ban on cutting of khejri trees, near a Bishnoi Dharamshala, in Bikaner, Rajasthan. (PTI Photo)Meanwhile, reports of illegal logging in other parts of the state, including in the forest area of Bayana subdivision in Bharatpur district, have further fuelled concerns about enforcement.Activists said the issue concerns the entire desert belt, including Jaisalmer, Barmer, Jodhpur, Pali, Jalore, Phalodi, Sriganganagar, and Churu. Protesters alleged that thousands of khejri trees were felled in recent years, largely for infrastructure and solar power projects.Founder of the Khejri Bachao Andolan, Parasram Bishnoi, said the agitation would continue until the state enacts a specific law making the cutting of khejri trees a punishable offence.“Large tracts of desert land are being indiscriminately handed over to solar parks, destroying the local ecosystem. Without legal protection, the desert’s survival is at stake,” Bishnoi told TOI.He added that participation is swelling daily and asserted that the onus now lies on the state government led by chief minister Bhajan Lal Sharma. Bishnoi alleged that khejri trees were uprooted across vast desert areas both in the name of renewable energy projects and by an illegal wood mafia, with little effective oversight.Development versus conservationThe unfolding debate reflects a broader tension between renewable energy expansion and environmental safeguards. Rajasthan is a key state in India’s solar mission. Large tracts of land are being allocated for solar parks, transmission corridors and associated infrastructure. Environmental supporters and members of the Bishnoi community participate in the ‘Save Khejri Movement’ (ANI photo)While renewable energy is seen as essential for climate mitigation, local communities argue that development planning must take into account ecological realities and traditional land-use patterns. The khejri, embedded in agricultural and grazing systems, is not easily replaceable.For many protesters, the demand is not to halt development but to ensure that it does not erode the ecological foundation of desert life.An evolving movementAs the Khejri Bachao Andolan entered its sixth day, its trajectory remains uncertain. The state government has indicated it is drafting legislation. Protesters insist on immediate written assurances and a comprehensive statewide ban.What is clear is that the agitation has tapped into a powerful historical memory and a deeply rooted cultural ethos. The khejri tree stands at the intersection of ecology, economy and identity in Rajasthan. Its fate has become a test case for how the state balances development with conservation in one of India’s most fragile landscapes.Whether the movement results in a new conservation law, stricter enforcement or a recalibration of project implementation, it has already reaffirmed the enduring symbolic power of a tree that many in Rajasthan consider their “Kalpavriksha”.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPiyush Goyal Says Agriculture Is Self Reliant Sector As India Refuses Farm Import Benefits To USFrom Design To Silicon, India Signals Semiconductor Breakout With Semicon 2.0 RoadmapMP Minister Vijay Shah Finally Apologises For Comment Targeting Op Sindoor Face Col Sofia QureshiTurkey Sides With Pakistan On Kashmir At UN After Sharif’s Rhetoric On India’s ‘Integral’ Territory’Home-Grown Ills’: Islamabad Mosque Blast Triggers Blame Game As India Rejects Pakistan’s BlameEx-US Official Raymond Vickery Says India Outsmarted Donald Trump Chaos By Sticking To Trade ProcessEx-US Official Raymond Vickery Backs India Red Line On Russian Oil As US Trade Deal Drops MentionIndia-US Trade Deal Explained: What The White House Says On Tariffs, Markets And Tech ShiftsPM Modi Calls India-US Trade Pact Framework Great News For Jobs, Make In India And Exports’We Were Preparing For War’: Former DGMO Reveals Inside Story Of India-China Doklam Stand-Off123Photostories6 celebrities who called out social media as ‘toxic’: Tom Holland, Selena Gomez, Kate Winslet, and moreThe ultimate footwear checklist every girl needs in her closet5 mistakes to avoid when investing in under-construction projectsFrom Anil Kapoor to Janhvi, meet ‘ Tu Yaa Main’ actress Shanaya Kapoor’s star relativesChennai airport soars: 80% on-time flights beat private giantsMumbai prepares for faster commute as WEH-BKC connector enters final stageTop 10 iconic Japanese fast foods you need to try at least once7 must-try winter street foods in ChandigarhUpcoming OTT releases for this week: ‘Kohrra Season 2’, ‘The Lincoln Lawyer Season 4,’ and moreTop luxury trekking motorbikes in 2026: Premium rides for rugged adventures123Hot PicksBudget 2026Gold Silver PricesParliament Budget SessionGCC Unified Visa 2026Income Tax CalculatorPublic holidays February 2026Bank Holidays februaryTop TrendingSuper Bowl TrophyCooper Kupp WifeKayla NicoleSuper Bowl LX TicketOliver RowlandJustin GaethjeLIV GolfLiam Paro vs Paddy Donovan Net WorthWinter Olympics 2026NBA Trade Update

Khejri Bachao Andolan In the heat of Rajasthan’s desert districts, a tree has become the focal point of a widening confrontation. Markets have shut, saints have gone on strike, political rivals have shared protest stages, and thousands have gathered under open skies to demand its protection.What began in Bikaner as a local objection to the alleged felling of khejri trees for solar power projects has since evolved into the ‘Khejri Bachao Andolan’, a statewide campaign pressing for stricter legal safeguards and an immediate ban on cutting the species. The movement has drawn support across party lines, producing a rare moment of political convergence.The khejri, botanically known as Prosopis cineraria and recognised as Rajasthan’s state tree, occupies a distinctive place in the ecology of the Thar desert. Amid the ongoing protests, chief minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, assuring the protection of the khejri, termed the tree as the state’s “Kalpavriksha,” a wish-fulfilling tree in Indian tradition. In an arid landscape where survival is closely tied to ecology, the reference reaffirms the tree’s symbolic and practical importance. For many communities in western Rajasthan, the debate now extends beyond development policy into questions of history, identity and survival. Protestors carried posters featuring a revered proverb in the Bishnoi community: “Sir saanthe rukh rahe to bhi sasto jaan” (If a tree can be saved, even at the cost of one’s head, consider it a bargain). (PTI)How the agitation unfoldedThe present phase of the movement intensified in early February, when over 360 saints and local residents began a hunger strike in Bikaner, demanding an immediate ban on the felling of khejri trees for solar power projects. The protest site was initially the Polytechnic College ground near the Collectorate before shifting to the Bishnoi Dharamshala, where the hunger strike continues.In Bikaner, markets remained closed for hours on Monday after a call by trader associations. Government and private schools in urban areas observed a half-day holiday in solidarity. Thousands gathered at the Polytechnic College ground before marching towards the Collectorate, where organisers announced an indefinite sit-in.Protesters came not only from different districts of Rajasthan but also from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. Organisers said they had arranged food for nearly one lakh participants, with hundreds of volunteers handling logistics. Police deployed additional forces, erected barricades near the Collectorate and kept water cannons on standby. Despite the scale and tensions, the protest remained peaceful. Environmental activists and members of the Bishnoi community participate in the Save Khejri Movement at Polytechnic College, protesting against the proposed cutting of Khejri trees for a solar power plant, in Bikaner. (PTI)Four protesters were admitted to Prince Bijay Singh Memorial Hospital as their health deteriorated during the hunger strike, while several others received medical assistance at camps set up near the site. Mokhram Dharaniya, one of the hospitalised protesters, said, “People are sitting on a hunger strike, including me. Our protest will continue until our demands are met.”The trigger? Solar expansion At the centre of the agitation are allegations that large numbers of khejri trees have been cut to facilitate solar power projects in western Rajasthan. The region has emerged as a hub for renewable energy, given its high solar irradiance and availability of land. While solar development is central to India’s energy transition goals, protesters argue that project implementation has come at the cost of ecologically vital trees.Tensions escalated when the state government announced a restriction on felling khejri trees only in the Jodhpur and Bikaner divisions. Protesters rejected the move as inadequate, demanding a blanket statewide ban. During one address by a government representative, protesters reportedly took away the microphone, insisting on a written assurance. Environmental activists and members of the Bishnoi community take part in the ‘Save Khejri Movement’, protesting against the proposed cutting of Khejri trees for a solar power plant, in Bikaner. (PTI Photo)Minister for skill, employment and entrepreneurship KK Bishnoi and State Animal Welfare Board chairman Jaswant Bishnoi visited the Bishnoi Dharamshala and offered juice to the hunger strikers in an attempt to persuade them to break their fast. The minister said the government was ready to provide a written commitment and appealed to protesters to end the hunger strike. However, saints on the stage refused to withdraw without formal documentation.Agitation leader Parsaram Bishnoi said, “The hunger strike did not end. The government order was incomplete as it failed to cover the entire state.” Former minister Bhanwar Singh Bhati said: “All sections of society participating in the agitation decided to continue until a complete ban on cutting Khejri trees was imposed across Rajasthan.”Storm in the assemblyThe issue has resonated in the Rajasthan Assembly. Congress MLA Dungar Ram Gedar raised the matter during Zero Hour, accusing the government of failing to act despite a persistent two-year protest led by the Bishnoi community in Bikaner. “Khejri being the state tree, there is an urgent need for a strict law to protect it,” Gedar said.Independent MLA Ravindra Singh Bhati stated that the matter was already under discussion in the assembly. “Bhagat Singh (the Indian freedom fighter) said that sometimes a blast is needed to make the voice heard. If it takes gheraoing the Assembly to save khejri, I will be at the forefront,” he said.Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma told the assembly that his government was drafting a conservation law for the khejri tree, which he described as the state’s “Kalpavriksha”. “In August, saints from Bikaner, Phalodi, Jodhpur and Nagaur met me. Following that, I instructed officials to prepare the draft legislation. The process is under way, and it will soon be presented in the assembly,” he said.The chief minister also used the assembly session to defend his government’s broader record, speaking about economic growth, recruitment reforms and water supply projects. However, protesters have maintained that until a formal statewide ban is issued, the agitation will continue.Former chief minister and senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot expressed support for the public movement, describing the indiscriminate cutting of khejri trees in the name of development as “extremely painful and unacceptable.” He recalled the historical sacrifice associated with the tree and said environmental protection must be prioritised.In a development seen as politically significant, former chief minister Vasundhara Raje publicly backed the movement that has put her own party, the BJP, in the dock.Sharing a photograph of herself worshipping a khejri tree, she wrote, “I also worship the Khejri tree. Rising above politics, we should all come forward to protect it. We must save it. I stand with everyone in the campaign to save the Khejri tree and the Oran (grazing land).” She also quoted a proverb revered in the Bishnoi community: “Sir saanthe rukh rahe to bhi sasto jaan” (If a tree can be saved, even at the cost of one’s head, consider it a bargain).Observers have noted that her intervention has added to political pressure on the state government. Vasundhara Raje shared a photo of herself performing a ritual puja, while pledging cross-party support to protect these trees and associated Oran grazing lands from development threats.The historical memory: Khejarli and Amrita DeviAny discussion of the khejri in Rajasthan inevitably returns to the events of 1730 in the village of Khejarli near Jodhpur. According to historical accounts, 363 members of the Bishnoi community, led by Amrita Devi Bishnoi, sacrificed their lives to prevent the felling of khejri trees ordered for royal construction.The episode, often referred to as the Khejarli massacre, is widely regarded as one of the earliest recorded instances of environmental resistance. Amrita Devi is said to have declared that the loss of her head would be a small price to save a tree. Her sacrifice and that of the others form a cornerstone of Bishnoi identity and environmental ethics in the region. According to historical accounts, 363 members of the Bishnoi community, led by Amrita Devi Bishnoi, sacrificed their lives to prevent the felling of khejri trees ordered for royal construction.Protesters in the current agitation have repeatedly invoked this legacy. Even Ashok Gehlot referred to the sacrifice of 363 individuals, including Amrita Devi Bishnoi, and said their legacy should be honoured.Ecological significanceThe khejri is uniquely adapted to arid (extremely dry) and semi-arid climates. It has a deep root system that allows it to access groundwater and survive prolonged drought. Unlike many other species, it does not compete aggressively with crops and is often grown in agricultural fields in a traditional agroforestry system. An agroforestry system is a land-use practice where trees are grown alongside crops or livestock on the same land to improve productivity and sustainability.Its leaves, known as “loong,” are used as fodder for livestock. Its pods, called “sangri,” are a staple ingredient in traditional Rajasthani cuisine, particularly in the dish Ker Sangri. The wood is used as fuel and timber, while its bark and other parts have been used in traditional medicine. The Khejri tree (Generative image)Ecologically, the tree improves soil fertility by fixing nitrogen, reduces desertification by stabilising sand dunes and provides shade in extreme heat. In regions where annual rainfall is minimal, it plays a crucial role in sustaining both human and animal life.Given these attributes, many in Rajasthan see the khejri not just as a tree but as a symbol of resilience and survival in a harsh environment.Legal framework and demandsCurrently, khejri trees are protected under various forest and environmental regulations, but protesters argue that enforcement is inconsistent and that ambiguities in existing laws create loopholes. Former Luni MLA Mahendra Vishnoi said, “Confusion exists in current laws concerning khejri conservation. The penalties must be precise and severe. Without a fear of the law, this destruction will persist.”Environmental activist Mokhram Dharniya alleged administrative inaction. “The administration has betrayed us repeatedly. Over the past year, we have held numerous protests, receiving assurances each time, while the trees continue to be axed. We will not permit the cutting of khejri anymore,” he said.One of the demands emerging from the agitation is a provision imposing a fine of Rs 1 lakh for violations. Activists have also called for a temporary statewide ban on felling until a comprehensive conservation law is enacted.Spread of the movementThe agitation has extended beyond Bikaner. In Barmer, protesters gathered at the Collectorate, and some youths climbed the gate and raised slogans after police closed the premises. A memorandum addressed to the chief minister was submitted.The movement has also taken on a deeply personal dimension for some families. Following the death of environmental activist Radheshyam Bishnoi in a road accident last year, his mother Ratni Devi and wife Nirma Bishnoi have continued his work and are now on a hunger strike demanding protection for khejri trees. Members of the Bishnoi community during an indefinite hunger strike, demanding a tree protection bill in the ongoing assembly session and a complete ban on cutting of khejri trees, near a Bishnoi Dharamshala, in Bikaner, Rajasthan. (PTI Photo)Meanwhile, reports of illegal logging in other parts of the state, including in the forest area of Bayana subdivision in Bharatpur district, have further fuelled concerns about enforcement.Activists said the issue concerns the entire desert belt, including Jaisalmer, Barmer, Jodhpur, Pali, Jalore, Phalodi, Sriganganagar, and Churu. Protesters alleged that thousands of khejri trees were felled in recent years, largely for infrastructure and solar power projects.Founder of the Khejri Bachao Andolan, Parasram Bishnoi, said the agitation would continue until the state enacts a specific law making the cutting of khejri trees a punishable offence.“Large tracts of desert land are being indiscriminately handed over to solar parks, destroying the local ecosystem. Without legal protection, the desert’s survival is at stake,” Bishnoi told TOI.He added that participation is swelling daily and asserted that the onus now lies on the state government led by chief minister Bhajan Lal Sharma. Bishnoi alleged that khejri trees were uprooted across vast desert areas both in the name of renewable energy projects and by an illegal wood mafia, with little effective oversight.Development versus conservationThe unfolding debate reflects a broader tension between renewable energy expansion and environmental safeguards. Rajasthan is a key state in India’s solar mission. Large tracts of land are being allocated for solar parks, transmission corridors and associated infrastructure. Environmental supporters and members of the Bishnoi community participate in the ‘Save Khejri Movement’ (ANI photo)While renewable energy is seen as essential for climate mitigation, local communities argue that development planning must take into account ecological realities and traditional land-use patterns. The khejri, embedded in agricultural and grazing systems, is not easily replaceable.For many protesters, the demand is not to halt development but to ensure that it does not erode the ecological foundation of desert life.An evolving movementAs the Khejri Bachao Andolan entered its sixth day, its trajectory remains uncertain. The state government has indicated it is drafting legislation. Protesters insist on immediate written assurances and a comprehensive statewide ban.What is clear is that the agitation has tapped into a powerful historical memory and a deeply rooted cultural ethos. The khejri tree stands at the intersection of ecology, economy and identity in Rajasthan. Its fate has become a test case for how the state balances development with conservation in one of India’s most fragile landscapes.Whether the movement results in a new conservation law, stricter enforcement or a recalibration of project implementation, it has already reaffirmed the enduring symbolic power of a tree that many in Rajasthan consider their “Kalpavriksha”.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPiyush Goyal Says Agriculture Is Self Reliant Sector As India Refuses Farm Import Benefits To USFrom Design To Silicon, India Signals Semiconductor Breakout With Semicon 2.0 RoadmapMP Minister Vijay Shah Finally Apologises For Comment Targeting Op Sindoor Face Col Sofia QureshiTurkey Sides With Pakistan On Kashmir At UN After Sharif’s Rhetoric On India’s ‘Integral’ Territory’Home-Grown Ills’: Islamabad Mosque Blast Triggers Blame Game As India Rejects Pakistan’s BlameEx-US Official Raymond Vickery Says India Outsmarted Donald Trump Chaos By Sticking To Trade ProcessEx-US Official Raymond Vickery Backs India Red Line On Russian Oil As US Trade Deal Drops MentionIndia-US Trade Deal Explained: What The White House Says On Tariffs, Markets And Tech ShiftsPM Modi Calls India-US Trade Pact Framework Great News For Jobs, Make In India And Exports’We Were Preparing For War’: Former DGMO Reveals Inside Story Of India-China Doklam Stand-Off123Photostories6 celebrities who called out social media as ‘toxic’: Tom Holland, Selena Gomez, Kate Winslet, and moreThe ultimate footwear checklist every girl needs in her closet5 mistakes to avoid when investing in under-construction projectsFrom Anil Kapoor to Janhvi, meet ‘ Tu Yaa Main’ actress Shanaya Kapoor’s star relativesChennai airport soars: 80% on-time flights beat private giantsMumbai prepares for faster commute as WEH-BKC connector enters final stageTop 10 iconic Japanese fast foods you need to try at least once7 must-try winter street foods in ChandigarhUpcoming OTT releases for this week: ‘Kohrra Season 2’, ‘The Lincoln Lawyer Season 4,’ and moreTop luxury trekking motorbikes in 2026: Premium rides for rugged adventures123Hot PicksBudget 2026Gold Silver PricesParliament Budget SessionGCC Unified Visa 2026Income Tax CalculatorPublic holidays February 2026Bank Holidays februaryTop TrendingSuper Bowl TrophyCooper Kupp WifeKayla NicoleSuper Bowl LX TicketOliver RowlandJustin GaethjeLIV GolfLiam Paro vs Paddy Donovan Net WorthWinter Olympics 2026NBA Trade Update

Vamsikrishna012 mins mins

In the heat of Rajasthan’s desert districts, a tree has become the focal point of a widening confrontation. Markets have shut, saints have gone on strike, political rivals have shared protest stages, and thousands have gathered under open skies to demand its protection.What began in Bikaner as a local objection to the alleged felling of…

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Feb 07, 2026, 17:03 IST

Feb 07, 2026, 17:03 IST

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Hardik Pandya walks off the field after being dismissed during the fourth T20I cricket match between India and New Zealand, at ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. (PTI) Indian men’s cricket team all-rounder Hardik Pandya said he is feeling confident and motivated ahead of India’s ICC T20 World Cup opener against the USA. He…

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‘Will not hurt farmers, MSMEs’: Piyush Goyal says India ‘fully protected’ in US trade deal

‘Will not hurt farmers, MSMEs’: Piyush Goyal says India ‘fully protected’ in US trade deal

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Commerce minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday assured that the India-US trade deal framework will not harm Indian farmers, MSMEs, artisans, or craftsmen, and said their interests remain fully protected.“I can say with absolute certainty that the farmers, MSMEs, artisans, and craftsmen of India will not suffer any kind of loss,” Goyal said in…

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India Post GDS recruitment 2026: Registration ends next week for 28,740 posts; check direct link and key details

India Post GDS recruitment 2026: Registration ends next week for 28,740 posts; check direct link and key details

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

India Post GDS recruitment 2026: The Department of Posts, under the Ministry of Communications, has invited applications for India Post Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) recruitment 2026. The registration process is currently underway and will close exactly next week on February 14, 2026.This recruitment drive aims to fill 28,740 vacancies across various postal circles in the…

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‘As I know the truth’, Tara Sutaria OPENS UP on finding inner peace amid breakup rumours with Veer Pahariya

‘As I know the truth’, Tara Sutaria OPENS UP on finding inner peace amid breakup rumours with Veer Pahariya

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Tara Sutaria addressed her idea of success and peace amid rumours of her breakup with Veer Pahariya. She told Elle India that success is about inner calm and self-awareness. “I’ve learned how to protect my peace,” she said, adding, “As long as I know the truth, that’s enough.” Tara Sutaria has found herself in the…

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5 mistakes to avoid when investing in under-construction projects

5 mistakes to avoid when investing in under-construction projects

Vamsikrishna01 mins mins

An under-construction property may not appreciate as expected if the location lacks infrastructure, connectivity or long-term demand. Market fluctuations during the construction period can also affect resale value and rental income. Evaluating growth potential, infrastructure plans and exit options helps ensure the investment remains viable over time. Investing in real estate projects under construction can…

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Taurus, Weekly Horoscope, February 08 to February 14, 2026: Love sees initial strain but deepens

Taurus, Weekly Horoscope, February 08 to February 14, 2026: Love sees initial strain but deepens

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Taurus, this week feels like shifting weather. Bright mornings followed by cloudy afternoons. The Moon highlights hidden tensions early on, especially connected to health and rivals. Beginning of the week asks for discretion. Keep your plans to yourself. Not everyone needs to know your next move. Borrowing or lending money now could create complications later.Midweek…

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India’s Outlook for 2026: Navigating Transformation in a Defining Year

India’s Outlook for 2026: Navigating Transformation in a Defining Year

Vamsikrishna05 mins mins

This article is authored by N.K Minda, Chairman, Uno Minda.The global economic landscape has undergone a fundamental shift over the past few years. The world order shaped by two to three decades of deep globalization—characterized by free trade, integrated supply chains and global sourcing—has given way to a more fragmented and protectionist environment. Escalating geopolitical…

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NEW DELHI: Congress leader Sonia Gandhi has opposed a criminal revision petition filed against her in the Rouse Avenue Court, calling it “wholly misconceived, frivolous, politically motivated and an abuse of the process of law.” She argued that matters of citizenship and electoral rolls cannot be turned into criminal proceedings four decades later.The reply, filed through her counsel before the court of special judge (CBI) Vishal Gogne, contests allegations that she was included in the electoral rolls before acquiring Indian citizenship.She urged that the plea be dismissed as baseless and speculative.According to her response, the complainant’s accusations rest on assumptions, media reports and personal presumptions and not on authentic government records.The reply further emphasises that no specific document has been identified as forged or fabricated, rendering the charges void of material substance. Matters of citizenship, it maintains, fall solely under the jurisdiction of the Central Government, while the Election Commission of India is responsible for maintaining electoral rolls.Arguing that criminal courts cannot assume jurisdiction in such matters, the reply states that entertaining the petition would amount to interference in the electoral process.It further denies that Gandhi’s name was ever re‑entered in the voter list based on any forged or improper application, saying the complainant has failed to produce any authentic document or effort to lawfully obtain one.Sonia Gandhi’s reply also dismisses as “baseless” the assertions that fabricated identity documents were used or that Gandhi had voted in the 1980 general election. It also objects to the complainant’s reliance on decades‑old media reports, noting such sources carry no legal weight and cannot serve as a foundation for criminal proceedings.The response underscores that the complaint seeks to revive a matter from 1980–83—over four decades later—without foundational proof, making it both stale and legally untenable.Procedural objections have also been raised, alleging non‑compliance with mandatory requirements under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNSS), including the absence of a valid affidavit, which, Gandhi’s counsel argues, deprives the court of jurisdiction.The revision petition, filed by advocate Vikas Tripathi, challenges a September 2025 order of the Magistrate Court that had dismissed his earlier complaint at the threshold. The Magistrate had held that questions of citizenship and electoral registration fall within the purview of the Central Government and Election Commission, and cannot be adjudicated through a criminal complaint.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosFrom Design To Silicon, India Signals Semiconductor Breakout With Semicon 2.0 RoadmapMP Minister Vijay Shah Finally Apologises For Comment Targeting Op Sindoor Face Col Sofia QureshiTurkey Sides With Pakistan On Kashmir At UN After Sharif’s Rhetoric On India’s ‘Integral’ Territory’Home-Grown Ills’: Islamabad Mosque Blast Triggers Blame Game As India Rejects Pakistan’s BlameEx-US Official Raymond Vickery Says India Outsmarted Donald Trump Chaos By Sticking To Trade ProcessEx-US Official Raymond Vickery Backs India Red Line On Russian Oil As US Trade Deal Drops MentionIndia-US Trade Deal Explained: What The White House Says On Tariffs, Markets And Tech ShiftsPM Modi Calls India-US Trade Pact Framework Great News For Jobs, Make In India And Exports’We Were Preparing For War’: Former DGMO Reveals Inside Story Of India-China Doklam Stand-OffGrand Welcome To Dance Record: Indian Diaspora Gears Up For PM Modi’s Malaysia Visit123PhotostoriesMumbai prepares for faster commute as WEH-BKC connector enters final stageTop 10 iconic Japanese fast foods you need to try at least once7 must-try winter street foods in ChandigarhUpcoming OTT releases for this week: ‘Kohrra Season 2’, ‘The Lincoln Lawyer Season 4,’ and moreTop luxury trekking motorbikes in 2026: Premium rides for rugged adventuresIndia’s major snow-fed rivers: Waterways that have shaped India’s landscape7 irresistible mutton dishes from Jammu and Kashmir that are a must-try in winterWhat happens if the builder does not follow the RERA order?5 national parks in India that are a part of iconic elephant reserves9 things you should avoid buying on Saturday, according to tradition123Hot PicksBudget 2026Gold Silver PricesParliament Budget SessionGCC Unified Visa 2026Income Tax CalculatorPublic holidays February 2026Bank Holidays februaryTop TrendingSuper Bowl TrophyCooper Kupp WifeKayla NicoleSuper Bowl LX TicketOliver RowlandJustin GaethjeLIV GolfLiam Paro vs Paddy Donovan Net WorthWinter Olympics 2026NBA Trade Update

NEW DELHI: Congress leader Sonia Gandhi has opposed a criminal revision petition filed against her in the Rouse Avenue Court, calling it “wholly misconceived, frivolous, politically motivated and an abuse of the process of law.” She argued that matters of citizenship and electoral rolls cannot be turned into criminal proceedings four decades later.The reply, filed through her counsel before the court of special judge (CBI) Vishal Gogne, contests allegations that she was included in the electoral rolls before acquiring Indian citizenship.She urged that the plea be dismissed as baseless and speculative.According to her response, the complainant’s accusations rest on assumptions, media reports and personal presumptions and not on authentic government records.The reply further emphasises that no specific document has been identified as forged or fabricated, rendering the charges void of material substance. Matters of citizenship, it maintains, fall solely under the jurisdiction of the Central Government, while the Election Commission of India is responsible for maintaining electoral rolls.Arguing that criminal courts cannot assume jurisdiction in such matters, the reply states that entertaining the petition would amount to interference in the electoral process.It further denies that Gandhi’s name was ever re‑entered in the voter list based on any forged or improper application, saying the complainant has failed to produce any authentic document or effort to lawfully obtain one.Sonia Gandhi’s reply also dismisses as “baseless” the assertions that fabricated identity documents were used or that Gandhi had voted in the 1980 general election. It also objects to the complainant’s reliance on decades‑old media reports, noting such sources carry no legal weight and cannot serve as a foundation for criminal proceedings.The response underscores that the complaint seeks to revive a matter from 1980–83—over four decades later—without foundational proof, making it both stale and legally untenable.Procedural objections have also been raised, alleging non‑compliance with mandatory requirements under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNSS), including the absence of a valid affidavit, which, Gandhi’s counsel argues, deprives the court of jurisdiction.The revision petition, filed by advocate Vikas Tripathi, challenges a September 2025 order of the Magistrate Court that had dismissed his earlier complaint at the threshold. The Magistrate had held that questions of citizenship and electoral registration fall within the purview of the Central Government and Election Commission, and cannot be adjudicated through a criminal complaint.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosFrom Design To Silicon, India Signals Semiconductor Breakout With Semicon 2.0 RoadmapMP Minister Vijay Shah Finally Apologises For Comment Targeting Op Sindoor Face Col Sofia QureshiTurkey Sides With Pakistan On Kashmir At UN After Sharif’s Rhetoric On India’s ‘Integral’ Territory’Home-Grown Ills’: Islamabad Mosque Blast Triggers Blame Game As India Rejects Pakistan’s BlameEx-US Official Raymond Vickery Says India Outsmarted Donald Trump Chaos By Sticking To Trade ProcessEx-US Official Raymond Vickery Backs India Red Line On Russian Oil As US Trade Deal Drops MentionIndia-US Trade Deal Explained: What The White House Says On Tariffs, Markets And Tech ShiftsPM Modi Calls India-US Trade Pact Framework Great News For Jobs, Make In India And Exports’We Were Preparing For War’: Former DGMO Reveals Inside Story Of India-China Doklam Stand-OffGrand Welcome To Dance Record: Indian Diaspora Gears Up For PM Modi’s Malaysia Visit123PhotostoriesMumbai prepares for faster commute as WEH-BKC connector enters final stageTop 10 iconic Japanese fast foods you need to try at least once7 must-try winter street foods in ChandigarhUpcoming OTT releases for this week: ‘Kohrra Season 2’, ‘The Lincoln Lawyer Season 4,’ and moreTop luxury trekking motorbikes in 2026: Premium rides for rugged adventuresIndia’s major snow-fed rivers: Waterways that have shaped India’s landscape7 irresistible mutton dishes from Jammu and Kashmir that are a must-try in winterWhat happens if the builder does not follow the RERA order?5 national parks in India that are a part of iconic elephant reserves9 things you should avoid buying on Saturday, according to tradition123Hot PicksBudget 2026Gold Silver PricesParliament Budget SessionGCC Unified Visa 2026Income Tax CalculatorPublic holidays February 2026Bank Holidays februaryTop TrendingSuper Bowl TrophyCooper Kupp WifeKayla NicoleSuper Bowl LX TicketOliver RowlandJustin GaethjeLIV GolfLiam Paro vs Paddy Donovan Net WorthWinter Olympics 2026NBA Trade Update

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Congress leader Sonia Gandhi has opposed a criminal revision petition filed against her in the Rouse Avenue Court, calling it “wholly misconceived, frivolous, politically motivated and an abuse of the process of law.” She argued that matters of citizenship and electoral rolls cannot be turned into criminal proceedings four decades later.The reply, filed…

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Updated: Feb 07, 2026, 16:46 IST

Updated: Feb 07, 2026, 16:46 IST

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (X-Cricbuzz) The dust is still settling at Harare Sports Club, but Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s breathtaking display in the Under-19 World Cup final against England continues to resonate across the cricketing world. His 175 off just 80 balls was more than an innings—it was a record-breaking blitz. With 15 towering sixes and a strike rate…

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PAK vs NED: From 98/2 to 114/7 and then Faheem Ashraf’s rescue act; how Pakistan’s T20 World Cup nearly ended on day one

PAK vs NED: From 98/2 to 114/7 and then Faheem Ashraf’s rescue act; how Pakistan’s T20 World Cup nearly ended on day one

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Netherlands’ Logan van Beek, center, reacts after getting hit for a six by Pakistan’s Faheem Ashraf, left, during the T20 World Cup cricket match between Netherlands and Pakistan in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026. (AP) With a shadow of boycott looming over their match against India on February 15, Pakistan cannot afford a…

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‘Big win for India’: ICT imports to protect domestic industry and boost tech capability, says Piyush Goyal

‘Big win for India’: ICT imports to protect domestic industry and boost tech capability, says Piyush Goyal

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Union Commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal said India’s approach to information and communication technology (ICT) product access is focused on safeguarding domestic interests while ensuring the country secures critical technologies needed for economic and national security priorities.Speaking in Delhi, Goyal said policy direction in the sector is aimed at protecting India from countries that…

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CTET 2026: Paper 2 cancelled at two Vaishali centres in Bihar; CBSE to hold re-exam within 15 days

CTET 2026: Paper 2 cancelled at two Vaishali centres in Bihar; CBSE to hold re-exam within 15 days

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

CTET 2026: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced that the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) 2026 Paper 2 could not be conducted at two examination centres in Vaishali (Hajipur), Bihar, due to unavoidable circumstances.In a post recently shared on X, CBSE said that out of 1,803 examination centres across the country, Paper…

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From ‘Lost in Translation’ to ‘Call Me by Your Name’: Valentine picks for anyone tired of fairy tale romance

From ‘Lost in Translation’ to ‘Call Me by Your Name’: Valentine picks for anyone tired of fairy tale romance

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Ditch the storybook conclusions; these cinematic gems delve into the gritty reality of love. Picture a night in vibrant Vienna or a serene afternoon in Tokyo, where films like ‘Before Sunrise’ and ‘Lost in Translation’ capture the essence of intimacy found in deep conversations and comfortable silences. Romantic movies often promise escape. These films choose…

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