Sunderlal Bahuguna was a prominent environmentalist and social activist in India, best known for his role in the Chipko Movement. Here’s a detailed biography of his life:

Early Life and Education

Sunderlal Bahuguna was born on January 9, 1927, in Maroda village, Tehri Garhwal, in the present-day Uttarakhand state, India. He was born into a humble family and had a deep connection with the Himalayan region. He completed his early education in Tehri and later earned a master’s degree in science from Agra University.

The Chipko Movement

Sunderlal Bahuguna’s name is synonymous with the Chipko Movement, which began in the early 1970s. This environmental movement aimed to protect the trees and forests of the region from deforestation and commercial logging. The term “Chipko” comes from the Hindi word “embrace” or “hug,” signifying the practice of villagers hugging trees to prevent them from being felled.

Bahuguna, along with his wife and fellow activists, led the Chipko Movement and used a Gandhian approach of non-violent protest. His famous slogan was “Ecology is Permanent Economy.” Their efforts eventually led to the government imposing a 15-year ban on commercial tree felling in the region.

Environmental Activism

Sunderlal Bahuguna’s activism extended beyond Chipko. He was a strong advocate for environmental conservation and sustainable development. He campaigned against large-scale dam projects in the Himalayan region, including the Tehri Dam. He argued that such projects posed serious ecological and social threats to the region.

Awards and Recognition

Bahuguna’s dedicated environmental work earned him national and international recognition. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1981 and the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership in 1982.

Later Life

Sunderlal Bahuguna continued his environmental activism and social work throughout his life. He was actively involved in raising awareness about issues like climate change and the importance of preserving Himalayan ecosystems. He also encouraged afforestation and reforestation efforts.

Sunderlal Bahuguna passed away on May 21, 2021, at the age of 94. His legacy lives on through his environmental work and the inspiration he provided to future generations of environmentalists.

Sunderlal Bahuguna’s life and work remain an integral part of India’s environmental history, and he is remembered as a dedicated and iconic figure in the conservation and sustainability movement in the country.