DEHRADUN: IN a heartfelt tribute, Ramesh Negi, President of the Integrated Mountain Initiative (IMI), expressed his condolences to environmentalist Vimla Bahuguna, who breathed her last today, acknowledging her pivotal role in Uttarakhand's environmental conservation efforts.
Negi emphasized, "Vimla Bahuguna's unwavering commitment to preserving our natural heritage has left an indelible mark on India's environmental movement."
Vimla Bahuguna, alongside her husband Sunderlal Bahuguna, was instrumental in initiating the Chipko movement in the 1970s that created countrywide green movement.
This grassroots campaign, where villagers embraced trees to prevent their felling, became a symbol of non-violent environmental activism.
Reflecting on her contributions, Negi stated, "The Chipko movement, inspired by Vimla Bahuguna's dedication, taught us the power of peaceful protest involving women, who have to toil for every household needs from fuelwood to grass and fodder for animals, safeguarding our forests."
Beyond Chipko, the Bahugunas were vocal critics of large-scale projects that threatened the Himalayan ecosystem.
Their opposition to the Tehri Dam project highlighted the environmental and social impacts of such developments.
Negi remarked, "Their advocacy against unsustainable projects in the Himalayas underscored the need for a development paradigm that respects both nature and local communities."
Ramesh Negi, who has been a staunch advocate for sustainable development in the Himalayan region, acknowledged the enduring legacy of the Bahugunas.
He noted, "Their life's work serves as a guiding light for organizations like IMI, reminding us of the importance of community-driven conservation efforts."
As the environmental community mourns the loss of Vimla Bahuguna, Negi's tribute encapsulates the profound impact of her life's work.
He concluded, "Vimla Bahuguna's legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, reinforcing the significance of harmony between humanity and nature."
He remembered the days when Bahugunas used to visite Lajpat Bhawan Chandigarh for various discussions on environmental issues organized by the Late Onkar Chand Sharma, a Gandhian, who was the secretary of Lajpat Bhawan.
The Bahugunas' dedication to environmental conservation remains a testament to the power of grassroots activism in effecting meaningful change.
Vimla Bahuguna was the last Gandhian and her loss is irreplaceable.
