For 68-year-old Koyal Devi, the forests of Jharkhand have been more than just trees and rivers—they have been her home, heritage, and lifeline. Growing up in a Santhal tribal village, she learned from an early age how to respect nature, collect herbs without harming the ecosystem, and celebrate the changing seasons with deep reverence. The forests provided everything—food, medicine, shelter, and a connection to the spirits of her ancestors.
But as time passed, things changed. Industrialization, deforestation, and climate change began eroding the lush green cover she once knew. The younger generation left for cities, and unsustainable development displaced many indigenous communities. Koyal Devi witnessed her sacred groves being cut down, rivers polluted, and biodiversity lost.
“The earth was once our mother,” she says. “Now, she is being wounded every day.”
A New Hope with Aadivasi.org®
Koyal Devi found hope when she became a part of Aadivasi.org®, an initiative dedicated to protecting indigenous knowledge, restoring biodiversity, and empowering tribal communities in Odisha, West Bengal, and Jharkhand. The organization works to preserve traditional wisdom, restore native ecosystems, and support sustainable livelihoods for indigenous people. Through Aadivasi.org’s programs, Koyal Devi and others have started reforestation efforts, revived ancient agroforestry techniques, and created sustainable, handcrafted goods that provide economic stability while protecting the environment. The initiative helps reintroduce native tree species, protect endangered herbs, and promote eco-friendly farming methods that sustain the land and the people who depend on it.
Aadivasi.org’s unique model enables people to contribute to causes such as Tree Plantation, Rainwater Harvesting, and providing essential resources like School Fees, Meals, and Sanitary Napkins for marginalized Tribal Communities. By making social contributions, individuals receive Handicrafts of equal value as a token of appreciation, creating a sustainable cycle of giving and empowerment.
Aadivasi.org: A Champion of Earth Day’s Mission
Earth Day(22nd April) is more than just a date—it is a call to protect and heal the planet. Aadivasi.org embodies the true essence of Earth Day by taking concrete action for environmental conservation. Through its efforts, over 17 million trees have been planted across India, aligning with global sustainability goals and reducing carbon emissions.
By choosing tribal-made, eco-friendly products, individuals directly contribute to forest preservation, traditional knowledge revival, and the economic empowerment of indigenous artisans. Women play a crucial role in this movement, gaining financial independence while continuing the legacy of their ancestors. The initiative ensures that the voices of indigenous communities—who have been the stewards of nature for centuries—are heard and respected in environmental conservation efforts.
A Future Rooted in Tradition and Sustainability
For Koyal Devi, this journey has been one of renewal.
“We are planting trees again, singing our old songs, and teaching our children the ways of the forest,” she says with renewed hope. “This Earth Day, I do not just remember what we have lost—I see what we can rebuild.”
As the world faces climate crises, deforestation, and biodiversity loss, initiatives like Aadivasi.org serve as a reminder that solutions can be found in the time-tested wisdom of indigenous communities who have lived in harmony with nature for generations.
Be a Part of the Change
This Earth Day, go beyond celebration—take action. Support initiatives like Aadivasi.org, choose sustainable products, and advocate for policies that protect both the environment and the people who nurture it. Let’s make Earth Day not just an observance, but a commitment to a greener, fairer world.
