VAN MAHOTSAV, HAZARIBAGH, GOURAV

The 'Van Mahotsav' and 'Vriksh Raksha Bandhan' campaign started from Doodhmatia forest in Tatiyaria block, Hazaribagh, has become an inspiration for the entire state and country today. This unique tradition of tying a protective thread on trees and the fragrance of forest protection gives Doodhmatia Van Mahotsav a distinct identity.

HOLD UP SOUND REPORT

VO 01. Every year on October 7th, the Doodhmatia forest in Hazaribagh is celebrated as an environmental conservation day. In 1995, teacher Mahadev Mahato, along with his colleagues, laid the foundation of 'Vriksh Raksha Bandhan' to stop the reckless felling of trees and illegal smuggling of forests.

BIT: Mahadev Mahato, founder, Vriksh Raksha Bandhan campaign BIT: Sunder Singh, associate and co-founder, Tatiyaria BIT: Murari Singh, environmentalist

VO 02. On the occasion of Doodhmatia Van Mahotsav, the traditional worship of Van Devi is performed first. After that, villagers, children, and environmental lovers tie a red thread on the trunks of trees, taking an oath to protect them. State Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Sanjeev Kumar, who arrived as the main guest, said that this small initiative by a teacher has now become a widespread people's movement.

BIT: Sanjeev Kumar, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), Jharkhand

FINAL VO The selfless initiative of teacher Mahadev Mahato and his companions has not only saved the Doodhmatia forest of Hazaribagh from being cut, but also conveys the message 'Trees are life' for future generations.

Report by Gaurav Prakash from Hazaribagh.