Jasraj Gurjar, a social worker in the village, mentioned that during the coronavirus pandemic, neem trees played a significant role. There were no positive cases or casualties reported in the village.

While reading the e-news of the Daily Bhaskar newspaper this morning, I came across a beautiful effort in community forest conservation in Padampur village, Rajasthan. I thought that translating it into English and Odia would help reach many of my friends.

Ajmer village in Rajasthan is a unique example of a deep love for the environment.

In Rajasthan, there is a village with nearly two-and-a-half times the population of neem trees compared to its human residents. These neem trees have never been cut, not even their twigs and leaves are touched. This tradition is still followed by all families in the village, including the younger generation. As a result, even in scorching heat, the temperature in the village is 7 to 8 degrees cooler than in surrounding villages.

Padampur, located about 12 kilometers from the district headquarters, is still known as Neem Village. The village is home to the Gurjar community, who for centuries have not cut down neem trees or broken their branches. Consequently, on both sides of the road, there are hills, forests, agricultural lands, and dense neem trees around homes.

A team from Dainik Bhaskar visited the village and measured the temperature using a thermometer. Padampur’s temperature was around 37 to 38 degrees Celsius, while the temperature in nearby Makdwali village was 44 degrees Celsius.

Shelter under Trees in the Heat: In the scorching heat of summer, people rest under the neem trees outside their homes. Students study in the shade of neem trees. These trees provide shelter not only for villagers but also for their cattle.

Madhuram, a villager, shared that even before his grandfather’s time, it was a tradition in the village not to cut or allow the cutting of neem trees. The research team noticed a unique aroma under the neem trees in the evening.

No deaths due to Corona Virus:
Jasraj Gurjar, a social worker in the village, mentioned that during the coronavirus pandemic, neem trees played a significant role. There were no positive cases or casualties reported in the village.

Population of 2000, More Than 5000 Neem Trees:

According to Sarpanch Sanju Devi and Jasraj, the village now has around 350 houses with a population of approximately 2,000-2,200, but there are over 5,000 neem trees.

Punishment for Damaging Trees:
The villagers have a unique way of dealing with those who harm the trees. If someone accidentally cuts down a tree or drives an axe into it, the villagers gather at the temple to decide the fine. The punishment involves providing grains and water to parrots. If someone buys farmland with a neem tree on it, the tree must not be cut down.

This remarkable tradition in Padampur village showcases the community’s deep commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable living.

– Amar Kumar
Mob : 9437233593