🌱 What Happened
In 1979, a young man named Jadav “Molai” Payeng, deeply rattled by the death of snakes due to extreme heat, started planting trees on a barren sandbar in the state of Assam, India.
💡 Impact
Over the course of four decades, his dedicated efforts turned the barren piece of land into a 1,360 acre forest, now known as Molai Forest. The forest, larger than Central Park in New York City, is home to a multitude of flora and fauna including elephants, tigers, and a variety of birds.
📍 The Bigger Picture
Payeng’s tireless efforts drew the attention of local authorities and wildlife organizations. He was recognized for his efforts and was bestowed with India’s fourth-highest civilian award, the Padma Shri, in 2015.
His story serves as a shining beacon of hope and a testament to the difference one individual’s dedication can make in conserving our environment.
- Jadav ‘Molai’ Payeng, the Forest Man of India, single-handedly planted a forest spanning 1360 acres.
- The forest is now home to a myriad of wildlife and biodiversity.
- He was honored with the Padma Shri award by the Government of India in 2015 for his environmental conservation efforts.
Read more about his inspiring journey on BBC News.
🔆 Takeaway
Every small effort counts. It’s never too late to start making a positive difference in the world. Let the story of Jadav Payeng inspire you to take a step, however small, towards conserving and respecting our Mother Earth.