Postage Stamp Released to Honour Gaura Devi on Her Birth Centenary in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand commemorates Gaura Devi's birth centenary with a postage stamp. The event highlights her legacy in environmental conservation and the ongoing relevance of her message.

In Reni village, Chamoli district, a postage stamp was released to honour Gaura Devi, a leader of the Chipko movement, on her birth centenary. Uttarakhand Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal highlighted her role in environmental conservation during an event at Nanda Devi National Park. He praised Devi as a symbol of inspiration for protecting forests across the state and country.

Uniyal emphasised that Gaura Devi's message, "Save Forests, Save Lives," remains vital today. He noted that her efforts show how ordinary citizens can significantly impact environmental conservation. The minister also stressed the importance of human-wildlife coexistence and discussed government initiatives to involve the public in forest conservation efforts.

Community Participation in Conservation

During the event, Mahila Mangal Dals from Lata and Reni villages performed cultural programmes centred on the Chipko Movement. These performances celebrated the spirit of the movement and highlighted its ongoing relevance. Gaura Devi’s son, Chandra Singh Rana, shared personal memories of his mother, adding a personal touch to the occasion.

Badrinath MLA Lakhpat Singh Butola praised Gaura Devi and the women of Reni for their bravery. He stated that their actions were not only about saving trees but also about securing rights and futures for coming generations. This perspective underscores the broader impact of their efforts beyond immediate environmental concerns.

Strengthening Conservation Efforts

Chief Conservator of Forests and Wildlife Warden Ranjan Kumar Mishra commended ongoing community conservation efforts in the Nanda Devi region. Mishra encouraged villagers to enhance participatory conservation models to ensure a cleaner environment for future generations. His remarks highlighted the importance of community involvement in achieving sustainable environmental goals.

The event served as a reminder of Gaura Devi's legacy and her significant contributions to environmental conservation. Her leadership during the Chipko Movement continues to inspire current and future efforts to protect natural resources. The celebration of her birth centenary reinforced her enduring influence on environmental activism.

With inputs from PTI