Barren hill given new life in 7 years, mining halted

Dewas is a small town in Madhya Pradesh. Shankargarh hill here had been ravaged by mining mafias. Based on a local citizen’s application, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) banned mining in September 2015. However, by then, half the hill had been destroyed. In 2016, three friends decided to give the hill a new lease of life. Today, the group has over 700 members, known as the Green Army. Initially, 40 saplings were planted. They watered them for two years by bringing water from the foothills. Seeing their dedication, the then Collector Chandramouli Shukla enlisted the help of the Forest Department. Shankargarh hill has now become a tourist destination, hosting numerous events.

Shruti Vatikas have been created here, where people plant trees and donate water tanks in memory of deceased members.

Ten young people in Lotiya village have transformed barren land at their own expense. 700 people are involved in the initiative.