Meet the Indians who stood between chainsaws and trees to save the country’s green cover

While Gaura Devi came into the limelight by becoming the symbol of the Chipko Movement through her brave act, Chandi Prasad Bhatt played a significant role in laying the foundation of the Chipko Movement. He had formed the Dashauli Gram Swarajya Sangh (DGSS) in 1964 and used it as a tool for forest conservation alongside establishing forest-based industries.

Time and again in several interviews, Bhatt has reiterated that forests are far beyond being a provider of timber. According to Bhatt, forests are not only the backbone of the economy but also survival of mountain dwellers, who should be the central focus of forest conservation initiatives. During an evaluation of the chipko movement, Bhatt has also opined that Chipko was not merely about hugging trees but ensuring social justice, sustainable development, and community participation. Throughout his life, he has contributed immensely towards environmental conservation which has fetched him several accolades such as the Ramon Magsaysay Award and the Padma Bhushan.