National Forest Martyrs Day 2025:
Tributes were paid to Forest Department personnel who died while engaged in conservation works during the National Forest Martyrs Day, observed recently.
- It is observed annually on September 11th in India to honor the sacrifices of those who have laid down their lives in defense of the country’s forests and wildlife.
- The day honours protective environmentalists and personnel of the forest who have experienced certain risks in the process of conservation of natural resources.
- The day goes back to the memory of the Khejarli Massacre, which took place in 1730 in the Marwar Kingdom.
- The then Maharaja Abhai Singh demanded Khejri trees from the Bishnoi village of Khejarli to be cut down to provide timber for his new palace.
- However, his action was resisted by the Bishnoi community, which has always been very sensitive towards the natural community.
- Villagers under the leadership of Amrita Devi Bishnoi protested by hugging trees to safeguard them.
- Unfortunately, Devi and many other members of the village were slain while defending the trees.
- It was estimated that 363 of them died while protesting.
- Their legacy inspired later conservation movements, including the Chipko Movement, shaping India’s environmental ethos.
- In recognition of this sacrifice, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change of India declared September 11 as the National Forest Martyrs Day in 2013.
- This day is a tribute to all those who defended nature against exploitation, from illegal logging to poaching.
- It underscores that forests are not just resources; they are lifelines that regulate the climate, purify air and water, and support biodiversity.
- The day is marked by memorial services, tree plantation drives, awareness campaigns, and educational events organised by the Ministry of Environment, state forest departments, and schools.
- Communities come together to honour martyrs and spread awareness about eco-conscious living.
