Question

Study the pictures given below and describe the movement.

Answer 1

The picture given below represents chipko movement. In 1973, Chandi Prasad Bhatt and Sunderlal Bahuguna launched the Chipko Movement (Chipko means ‘to hug’) to protest the widespread timber production in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district. This non-violent initiative brought together local women from villages to raise awareness of the ecological crisis in the hills. Deforestation directly affected women’s lives, limiting access to firewood and fodder. They actively engaged in the campaign.

When timber contractors came to take down the trees, women embraced them and refused to go. The movement gathered strength under Sunderlal Bahuguna, leading to a 15-year ban on destroying green trees in 1980. He screamed the slogan "Ecology is the Permanent Economy." The movement to save hill forests and greenery became known as "Appiko" and extended throughout the hill region, including Karnataka. The presentation highlighted the need for grassroots activity and community participation in addressing ecological concerns, in addition to emphasising environmental protection. Its legacy continues to inspire environmental movements worldwide.