The Importance of Tree Conservation: A Necessity of Our Times

"Without trees, the clouds disperse,

Without clouds, water disappears,

Without water, agriculture fails,

Without agriculture, prosperity declines,

Without prosperity, all become disheartened,

Such devastation is caused by cutting down trees."

Introduction

From the sacred basil plant (Tulsi) in our courtyards to the leafy vegetables on our plates, from the crops in the fields to the medicinal plants in forests, and from the smallest grass blades to the mighty trees in the wild — all these plants have enriched and sustained human life.

Saint Tukaram Maharaj beautifully encapsulates this relationship, saying:

“The creepers and trees are our helpers, and so are the forest dwellers!”

Trees bring us joy in happiness and provide faith during hardships. Just like a vine supports its surroundings, trees provide life and breath to every living creature. They are the source of:

• Fuel for energy
• Fragrance from sandalwood
• Fodder for animals
• Cool winds to clouds above
• Vital water flows sustaining nature

All these blessings come from the grace of trees.

The Paradox of Progress and Deforestation

Science has propelled humanity forward, yet unwise deforestation has accompanied this progress. We have betrayed our tree friends by cutting down forests recklessly, leading to droughts, pollution, and environmental crises.

Trees are the lungs of nature — they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, purifying the air and making life easier and happier for us all. Yet today, humans are destroying these priceless trees for selfish gains.

The Harsh Reality of Tree Plantation Efforts

The government plants millions of trees annually, but where do these trees actually go? There's a lot of publicity around tree planting:

• Announcements
• Grand claims
• Selfies and media coverage

But where do the trees survive? If the total trees planted every year had survived, India wouldn't be struggling even in summers, and we would see consistent rainfall.

The truth is: every year, the same old pits are dug with new saplings planted, but no real tree conservation happens. It’s not just about planting — it’s about protecting and nurturing those trees.

A Thought-Provoking Idea: Why Plant Trees Instead of Frog Weddings?

When I think progressively, I wonder why people don’t plant trees for rain instead of organizing frog marriages (a traditional rain-invoking ritual). In the past, trees were abundant, so such rituals were just customs. But now, with fewer trees, blaming nature is a tragedy caused by human error.

A Unique Proposal for Tree Conservation

In Hindu tradition, after cremation, ashes are often immersed in rivers. Here is my simple suggestion:

Do not throw ashes in rivers. Instead, collect them in a bag, take them home, dig a pit in your field, and plant a tree there in memory of the departed soul.

If this idea were widely practiced:

• Planting trees wouldn't need constant urging.
• Before leaving your parental home (for marriage or any other reason), plant a tree as a remembrance.
• Celebrate milestones, like weddings and birthdays, by planting and nurturing a tree.

If every Indian planted and cared for a tree on their birthday, the forests of this country would revive rapidly.

Act Locally, Think Globally

Instead of fighting over trees on Borders of Farm, plant trees on and around Farms. Instead of questioning what others do, ask yourself:

“What can I do for tree conservation?”

Start today — with your own hands and heart.

Thank you!