Why in News?
Padma Shri awardee and renowned environmentalist Saalumarada Thimmakka passed away at 114 in Bengaluru. Famous for planting 385 banyan trees along a 4.5 km stretch, she received multiple national honours. Leaders across India condoled her demise.
Description:
- Born in Gubbi taluk, Tumakuru district, Karnataka.
- Married to Bikkala Chikkayya of Hulikal village.
- Had no formal education; belonged to a modest rural family.
- Childlessness turned into motivation for environmental work.
Environmental Contribution:
- Planted and nurtured 385 banyan trees along the Kudur–Hulikal stretch of State Highway-94.
- Trees were tended manually for decades — watering, fencing, protecting them like “children.”
- Earned the honorific “Saalumarada” meaning row of trees in Kannada.
- Also known as Vriksha Mata (Mother of Trees).
Significance:
- Work exemplifies grassroots environmental stewardship.
- Trees have become a living green corridor improving ecology, soil moisture, and microclimate.
- Inspired community-led conservation movements across India.
- Multiple botanical gardens, nurseries, and awards named after her.
Awards & Honours:
- Padma Shri (2019) for social work and environmental conservation.
- State and national recognitions for afforestation.
- Honorary doctorate for ecological contributions.
- Recognised internationally for sustainable community action.
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