In the serene hills of Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region, a quiet revolution is unfolding. Women from the villages of Sarmoli and Shankhdhura have taken it upon themselves to protect the forests that sustain their lives, their communities, and the future. Treating every tree as a family member, these women are not just conserving nature—they are safeguarding their very existence and inspiring an entire generation.
This inspiring story comes from a powerful episode of Gaon Se with Neelesh Misra, aired on Doordarshan National. The episode beautifully captures how ordinary village women have become extraordinary stewards of the environment through dedication, unity, and innovative action.
The Heart of the Forest: “Jungal Hai Toh Hum Hai”
At the core of their philosophy lies a simple yet profound truth shared in the video:
“जंगल है तो हम है। जंगल नहीं तो हम भी नहीं है।”
(If the forest exists, we exist. If the forest doesn’t, neither do we.)
The women explain that forests provide everything—from oxygen and water to fodder for cattle, herbs for medicine, and livelihoods through tourism and farming. Without them, the mountains would become barren, rivers would dry up, and villages would lose their soul. They proudly protect Banj (Himalayan oak) and Rhododendron trees, viewing the entire ecosystem—trees, rivers, mountains, and soil—as interconnected.
Forest Panchayats: Women-Led Powerhouses of Conservation
In the Kumaon division, forest panchayats (elected village committees) play a pivotal role. These women-dominated bodies handle everything from planting new trees to stopping illegal hunting, poaching, and forest fires. They actively guard grasslands and woodlands to prevent villagers from cutting trees or stealing grass.
The episode highlights how these panchayats are essential for local farming and eco-tourism. The women emphasise that if forest panchayats weaken, the entire rural economy suffers. Their work directly benefits not just their villages but urban India too—clean air, fresh water, and biodiversity are shared treasures.
Action That Inspires: Planting Thousands, Spreading Awareness
The scale of their efforts is truly remarkable:
- Every year during Sarmoli Jayanti, they plant 20,000 to 25,000 trees.
- They support and guide 101 other forest panchayats across neighbouring villages by supplying saplings and sharing knowledge on protection techniques.
- They harness the power of digital media—writing stories, creating videos, and producing short films—to raise awareness about the importance of forest panchayats.
- They patrol forests vigilantly, ensuring precious natural resources remain safe for generations.
These women don’t just talk about conservation; they live it. They treat preservation as a sacred duty, teaching that “whatever is precious must be protected.”
A Message for the Nation
The episode of Gaon Se with Neelesh Misra aired on DD National (Monday to Friday at 6 PM) reminds us that real change often begins in the smallest villages. These Uttarakhand women prove that when communities—especially women—come together, they can safeguard the environment against all odds.
Their story is a beacon of hope in the face of climate change and deforestation. It shows that conservation is not just about planting trees; it’s about preserving dreams, culture, and a sustainable way of life.
As one of the women beautifully sums up in the video: saving the forest means saving ourselves.
Watch the Full Story
Catch the complete episode here: YouTube
This is more than a story of trees—it’s a story of resilience, women’s empowerment, and love for Mother Earth. The women of Sarmoli and Shankhdhura are showing India and the world how grassroots conservation can create lasting impact. Their message is clear: Protect the forest today, so our children can breathe tomorrow.
If this story moved you, share it and support local conservation efforts. The forests of Uttarakhand—and the women guarding them—deserve our admiration and action. 🌲❤️
