After 11 days of protests and public pressure, the Rajasthan government has declared a ban on cutting Khejri trees across the state. This decision comes with a promise to introduce a comprehensive Tree Protection Law during the ongoing Budget Session. The Save Environment Mahapadav protest at the Bikaner District Collectorate was halted following this announcement.
A delegation led by Minister of State K.K. Bishnoi and other officials presented the official order prohibiting Khejri tree cutting until the new law is enacted. Swami Sachchidanand, the protest leader, welcomed the government’s move but cautioned that the agitation could resume if the upcoming law lacks effectiveness.
The protest suspension was met with cheers and celebrations at the protest site, with various community leaders addressing the gathering. BJP State Vice President Biharilal Bishnoi praised the government for recognizing the environmental cause and preventing Khejri tree felling. He emphasized the historical significance of environmental conservation inspired by Amrita Devi Bishnoi and highlighted the diverse participation in the movement.
BJP State President Madan Rathore raised concerns about desert vegetation conservation in the Rajya Sabha, advocating for the protection of native species like Khejri, Neem, Rohida, and Peepal. He also called for the controlled removal of the invasive Juliflora to safeguard biodiversity and groundwater levels in arid regions. Rathore stressed the importance of preserving indigenous desert flora to maintain Rajasthan’s delicate ecosystem.
