NewKerala.com

Rajasthan Reserves 3,666 Hectares to Conserve Sacred 'Oran' Groves

The Rajasthan government has launched a significant initiative to reserve land for the conservation of 'Oran', a centuries-old system of protecting sacred groves. A total of 3,666 hectares across villages in Jaisalmer district have been designated for this purpose. These areas, rooted in socio-religious beliefs where harming trees is prohibited, are crucial for preventing desertification and preserving biodiversity. The move aims to maintain ecological balance in the desert region while honoring local cultural traditions.

Key Points: Rajasthan Launches 'Oran' Conservation Initiative in Jaisalmer

  • 3,666 hectares reserved for 'Oran'
  • Protects sacred groves & biodiversity
  • Combats desertification in arid region
  • Blends socio-religious tradition with ecology
2 min read

Raj govt launches initiative for 'Oran' conservation in Jaisalmer, 3,666 hectares of land reserved to preserve groves

Rajasthan govt reserves 3,666 hectares of land in Jaisalmer to protect sacred 'Oran' groves, blending ancient tradition with ecological conservation.

"a unique confluence of faith and conservation - Content"

Jaipur, April 16

In a significant step towards environmental conservation while respecting local traditions, the Rajasthan government on Thursday has undertaken a major initiative to reserve 'Oran' land in Jaisalmer district to maintain ecological balance in the desert region.

'Oran' refers to a centuries-old system rooted in socio-religious beliefs, where local communities protect sacred groves by refraining from harming trees or natural resources within these areas.

Cutting trees or using axes in such zones is traditionally prohibited, allowing these ecosystems to remain naturally preserved over generations.

These sacred landscapes represent a unique confluence of faith and conservation.

Under this initiative, a total of 3,666.2139 hectares of land has been reserved across various villages in Jaisalmer district for 'Oran' purposes.

In Ramgarh tehsil, 124.9502 hectares have been reserved in Dilawar Ka Gaon, 1,084.8043 hectares in Kuchhdi, and 583.9876 hectares in Poonamnagar. In Fatehgarh tehsil, 952.2752 hectares in Bhimsar and 96.7716 hectares in Binjota have been designated as 'Oran' areas.

Additionally, in Jaisalmer tehsil, land has been reserved in Mokla village across three blocks measuring 187.364 hectares, 256.2511 hectares, and 253.4034 hectares, along with 126.4065 hectares in Birma Kanod.

The state government is also in the process of reserving additional land for 'Oran' conservation.

This includes 1,457.4991 hectares in Mokla village (Jaisalmer tehsil), 225.03 hectares in Askandra village and 229.5067 hectares in Didhu village (Nachna tehsil), and 333.9165 hectares in Mohanagarh Barani/Pannodharay village.

The term 'Oran' is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Aranya', meaning an untouched forest. These areas are not only a reflection of ancient cultural and religious traditions but also play a crucial role in preventing desertification and preserving biodiversity in arid regions.

The initiative is expected to strengthen conservation efforts in Jaisalmer while protecting traditional sites of faith and enhancing greenery and biodiversity across the desert landscape.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Finally, a policy that respects local wisdom. These Orans are not just forests; they are water recharge zones in the desert and a lifeline for wildlife. The detailed mapping of hectares shows serious intent. Kudos to the Rajasthan govt!
A
Aman W
Good step, but implementation is key. I hope they involve the local communities in the management and don't just turn it into another bureaucratic project. The real protectors of these groves have always been the villagers.
S
Sarah B
As someone working in conservation, this is fascinating. The 'Oran' system is a brilliant example of community-based ecological management. Preserving over 3600 hectares in a desert region is a massive win for biodiversity and climate resilience.
V
Vikram M
My family is from near Jaisalmer. These sacred groves are part of our identity. This news has made my day. It's not just about trees; it's about protecting our history, our water sources, and our faith. Jai Rajasthan!
K
Karthik V
A respectful criticism: While reserving land is great, what about the existing encroachments or mining leases near these areas? The notification must be backed by strict ground-level enforcement to prevent any future degradation.
N
Nisha Z
This is the kind of sustainable development we need

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50