Tulsi Gowda: Encyclopaedia Of Forest
Anecdote: Tulsi Gowda, known as the “tree goddess” and the “encyclopaedia of forest,” devoted her life to environmental conservation despite humble beginnings. Born in 1944 in a small village in Karnataka, tragedy struck early when she lost her father at the age of two. Growing up in poverty, she forwent formal education and worked alongside her mother in a local forest nursery. Her deep connection with nature and exceptional knowledge of forests became evident when she began identifying mother trees and nurturing seeds for afforestation projects. Through sheer dedication and self-taught expertise, she transformed barren lands into thriving ecosystems. Over 35 years as a daily wage worker and another 15 years as a permanent employee at the Karnataka Forest Department, she played a pivotal role in planting over 1 lakh trees, protecting wildlife, and preventing forest fires. Her work strengthened biodiversity in reserves and sanctuaries across Karnataka. In 2021, she was honoured with the Padma Shri for her unparalleled contributions, leaving behind a legacy of ecological restoration and environmental stewardship.
Anecdote: Tulsi Gowda, known as the “tree goddess” and the “encyclopaedia of forest,” devoted her life to environmental conservation despite humble beginnings. Born in 1944 in a small village in Karnataka, tragedy struck early when she lost her father at the age of two. Growing up in poverty, she forwent formal education and worked alongside her mother in a local forest nursery. Her deep connection with nature and exceptional knowledge of forests became evident when she began identifying mother trees and nurturing seeds for afforestation projects. Through sheer dedication and self-taught expertise, she transformed barren lands into thriving ecosystems. Over 35 years as a daily wage worker and another 15 years as a permanent employee at the Karnataka Forest Department, she played a pivotal role in planting over 1 lakh trees, protecting wildlife, and preventing forest fires. Her work strengthened biodiversity in reserves and sanctuaries across Karnataka. In 2021, she was honoured with the Padma Shri for her unparalleled contributions, leaving behind a legacy of ecological restoration and environmental stewardship.