Daughter’s death due to dehydration sparks green miracle: How this Padma Shri awardee turned Rajasthan’s arid village into an eco-feminist oasis

Today’s motivation comes from an inspiring story from Rajasthan. In the small village of Piplantri, a remarkable example of nature, tradition, and social change was created by Shyam Sunder Paliwal, often called the father of eco-feminism in India. The journey began in 2006 when Paliwal, the village head, lost his young daughter to dehydration, an event that deeply shook the community and exposed the harsh reality of falling groundwater levels in the
Over the years, this practice has turned Piplantri into a lush green landscape filled with mango, sheesham, banyan and peepal trees, transforming what was once a dry, semi-arid region into something close to an ecological oasis.

Eco-Feminism in Action: Protecting Girls and Nature Together

What makes Piplantri truly unique is how deeply the trees are connected to the girls of the village. Families and children take responsibility for the saplings, and in a symbolic gesture of bonding, girls even tie rakhis to the trees they grew up alongside.


The village also promotes strong social values, parents are required to sign an agreement ensuring that girls are not married before the age of 18. In addition, a financial deposit is made in the girl’s name, which matures as she grows older, helping secure her future.

Sustainable Rural Economy in Piplantri

Beyond social change, the initiative has also boosted the local economy. The green cover has supported the growth of natural products like aloe vera and other plant-based resources, creating livelihood opportunities for villagers and promoting sustainable farming practices.

Padma Shri Recognition for a Green Vision

For his extraordinary work in blending environmental conservation with gender equality, Shyam Sunder Paliwal was awarded the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honours.

Today, Piplantri stands as a living example of how one idea, born out of personal tragedy, can reshape an entire community. It is a reminder that when nature and society grow together, the impact can be both beautiful and lasting.

Inputs from agencies