Rajasthan
Rajasthan Imposes Statewide Ban on Felling of Khejri Tree
- 26 Feb 2026
- 2 min read
Why in News?
The Government of Rajasthan has imposed a statewide ban on the felling of the Khejri tree following sustained agitation by the Bishnoi community demanding stronger legal protection for the species.
Key Points:
- Statewide Ban: An official order issued by the Revenue Department Secretary to all district collectors has prohibited the cutting of Khejri trees across Rajasthan until a comprehensive legal framework for their protection comes into force.
- Community Agitation: The decision follows an 11-day “Khejri Bachao Andolan” (Save Khejri Movement) in Bikaner and other desert districts, where Bishnoi community members and environmental activists raised slogans, held rallies, and fasted to press for a permanent ban.
- Legislative Assurance: The state government has also assured that a dedicated Tree Protection Law will be introduced in the upcoming budget session of the Rajasthan Assembly.
- Khejri (Prosopis cineraria) is a vital desert species that improves soil fertility, provides fodder, prevents desertification, and supports biodiversity in arid regions.
- Cultural Importance: The Bishnoi community has a historic tradition of environmental conservation, rooted in the teachings of Guru Jambheshwar, making Khejri protection both an ecological and cultural issue.
- Significance: The ban on Khejri tree felling marks an important step in balancing development with ecological preservation in Rajasthan. Backed by strong community mobilisation, the move reinforces India’s tradition of participatory environmental conservation.
| Read More: Bishnoi community, Environmental conservation |
