Barmer: The growing population and commercialization of remote places is a threat to the environment. The construction of flyovers leads to the deforestation of tress, and while in other areas, trees are cleared to make way for industrial zones. A teacher, Bhairaram Bhakar has dedicated the past 24 years to preserving greenery. Let’s read about the journey of this environmentalist. 

Who is Bhairaram Bhakar

Bhairaram Bhakar is a resident of Indrai village. For the last 24 years, he has dedicated himself to transforming the barren areas of Rajasthan into green landscapes. Notably, Bhairaram has planted over four lakh trees in the challenging terrain of the Thar dessert. Since 1999, he has been consistently working on the mission to make the environment greener. In the year 2002, he found a job as a teacher and took an oath that he would allocate one month’s salary to his tree plantation initiative. 

Gifting plants

During holidays, Bhairaram Bhakar loads plant saplings on his bicycle and explores new places to plant saplings at different locations. He even distributes saplings as gifts during wedding ceremonies. Interestingly, he has covered 27,000 kilometres on his bike which in itself is an accomplishment. He spreads the message of tree plantation and has so far engaged with 1,20,000 people in his campaign. 

Achievements

Bhairaram Bhakar shares that he has successfully planted more than 4 lakh trees that provide shade and approximately one and half lakh drumstick plants. Recognizing his significant contributions, he received awards from the Barmer District Administration on Republic Day 2022 and from the All India Bishnoi Mahasabha in the same year. In 2021, the Forest Department honoured him at the district level on World Environment Day. Over the past two decades, Bhairaram has spent Rs 8 lakh in environmental protection.