A Village That Grows Trees and Equality
In the village of Piplantri, 111 trees are planted to celebrate the birth of every girl, promoting both environmental and social change. This unique initiative ensures financial security and education for girls, transforming cultural norms and empowering future generations.
A Village That Grows Trees and Equality
The villagers of Piplantri plant 111 trees every time a girl child is born and the community ensures these trees survive, attaining fruition as the girls grow up. India has a huge deficit of girls because society is obsessed with the male child and girls are considered financial burdens because of the dowry practices.Over the years, people here have managed to plant over 300,000 trees on the village's grazing commons. Trees planted include neem, sheesham, mango and amla.
Grow Trees, Grow Life
Planting trees is one of the most powerful ways to protect our environment and secure a better future. Trees clean the air, provide oxygen, conserve water, and support wildlife. They reduce the effects of climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide and cooling the surroundings. By growing more trees, we not only restore natural balance but also create healthier, greener spaces for ourselves and generations to come.
Educate Girls, Empower the Future
Educating girls is one of the most effective ways to build stronger families, communities, and nations. When a girl is educated, she is healthier, more confident, and better equipped to break the cycle of poverty. Saving and supporting girls means giving them equal opportunities to thrive. Let’s invest in girls’ education and ensure every girl grows up with dignity, knowledge, and the power to shape her future.
Leadership Profile
Celebrating those who lead change with vision and compassion.
Shyam Sundar Paliwal
Shyam Sunder Paliwal is a renowned social activist and former village head (sarpanch) of Piplantri, located in Rajasthan’s Rajsamand district. Widely known as the "Father of Eco-Feminism", he pioneered a unique movement that links environmental conservation with women’s empowerment. In memory of his late daughter, he launched the inspiring initiative of planting 111 trees for every girl child born in the village. For his outstanding social work, he was honored with the Padma Shri award in 2021.