Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla paid heartfelt respects to Amrita Devi Bishnoi and the martyrs of Khejadli village, who sacrificed their lives in the 18th century to protect the sacred Khejri trees.

Marking Khejadli Sacrifice Day, Birla said the courage and devotion of these environmental defenders remain etched in Rajasthan’s folk memory. Their story, he noted, proves that the concept of environmental conservation is neither new nor modern in India, but deeply rooted in its cultural and spiritual traditions.

In a social media post, Birla reflected on Rajasthan’s legacy, describing it as a land not only of valour and heroism but also of profound faith in nature. He emphasized that the sacrifice of the Bishnoi community serves as a reminder of citizens’ responsibility to safeguard the environment for future generations.

The Khejadli movement, led by Amrita Devi, saw villagers embrace the trees to prevent their felling, ultimately laying down their lives. This act of bravery continues to inspire India’s environmental consciousness and reinforces the importance of living in harmony with nature.