Tulsi Gowda: Barefoot environmentalist and "Encyclopedia of Forest"

Tulsi Gowda: Barefoot environmentalist and "Encyclopedia of Forest"

March 8, 2025

Tulsi Gowda is a Padma Shri awardee, a farmer and an environmentalist from the state of Karnatakka, India. She is widely known as the "Encyclopedia of Forest" for her extensive knowledge and efforts in preserving the forests. The 2021 list of Padma A Read more

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Tulsi Gowda: Barefoot environmentalist and "Encyclopedia of Forest"

Tulsi Gowda is a Padma Shri awardee, a farmer and an environmentalist from the state of Karnatakka, India. She is widely known as the "Encyclopedia of Forest" for her extensive knowledge and efforts in preserving the forests.

The 2021 list of Padma Awards included a 72-year-old tribal woman from Karnataka, Tulsi Gowda.

She was presented the award for her contribution to the protection of the environment.

Barefoot and dressed in traditional attire, Tulsi Gowda received India’s fourth-highest civilian award from President Ram Nath Kovind during a ceremony in the national capital.

Gowda grew up in a small village surrounded by forests.

From a young age, she was fascinated by the plants and animals that lived in the forest, and spent much of her time exploring and learning about them.

As she grew older, she began to notice the effects of deforestation and habitat destruction on the forest and its inhabitants. This realization led her to become deeply committed to protecting and preserving the forests.

Determined to make a difference, she began working with local communities to educate them about the importance of conserving the forest and its resources.

She helped establish community-based conservation initiatives such as tree-planting campaigns and the creation of wildlife corridors. She also worked closely with the government and NGOs to promote sustainable practices in the region.

Gowda's work and dedication towards the forest preservation has earned her recognition from the government and various organizations.

Her knowledge and experience have been sought after in conferences and workshops around the country. She has consulted on conservation projects and policies by government agencies and NGOs.

This recognition and exposure have helped her spread awareness of the importance of preserving the forest among people.

One of the most significant achievements of her career is receiving the prestigious Padma Shri, one of the highest civilian awards in India.

This recognition has brought her work to national attention and has helped to further promote conservation efforts in the region.

But her work does not stop there, as a respected authority on the subject, she continues to work tirelessly to promote sustainable practices and conservation in her community.

Her example has encouraged other farmers and community members to adopt conservation methods, ensuring that the local forest continues to thrive.

In conclusion, Tulsi Gowda's work as an "Encyclopedia of Forest" has been of immense importance in preserving and protecting the forests in her region.

Her dedication, hard work and contributions towards forest preservation have earned her recognition, accolades and the Padma Shri award. Her legacy continues to inspire many other people who are working towards preserving the environment.

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Tulsi Gowda’s Green Thumb

While most people struggle to keep a houseplant alive, she has nurtured over a million trees—talk about having a gift for greenery.

The Barefoot Environmentalist

Who needs expensive hiking boots when you can walk the forests barefoot, feeling every leaf, root, and whisper of nature like Tulsi Gowda does?

Tulsi Gowda’s Encyclopedia of Forest Knowledge

Forget Google—this woman carries centuries of ecological wisdom in her mind, knowing every tree like an old friend.

From Tribal Roots to Global Recognition

She started as a humble worker planting saplings and ended up receiving India’s Padma Shri—proof that true impact comes from the ground up.

Tulsi Gowda’s Million-Tree Mission

She didn’t just plant trees; she sowed hope, proving that a single person’s dedication can grow into an entire forest of change.

The Woman Who Speaks the Language of Trees

Some people whisper to horses, but Tulsi Gowda understands the silent conversations of forests, knowing exactly what they need to thrive.

Tulsi Gowda’s Contribution to India’s Forest Conservation

When the world talks about climate change, she acts—turning barren lands into lush green sanctuaries, one sapling at a time.

What We Can Learn from Tulsi Gowda

If a barefoot woman without formal education can restore forests, what’s stopping the rest of us from doing our part for the planet?

Tulsi Gowda’s Journey from a Nursery Worker to an Environmental Icon

From tending saplings as a young girl to becoming an environmental legend, her life is proof that small actions lead to mighty forests.

The Secret Behind Tulsi Gowda’s Unmatched Forest Knowledge

No books, no degrees—just decades of hands-on experience and a heart deeply connected to the rhythms of nature.

Why Tulsi Gowda Deserves the Title ‘Forest Guardian’

She isn’t just planting trees—she’s protecting entire ecosystems, ensuring future generations inherit a world still filled with green.

Tulsi Gowda’s Legacy of Green

Long after she’s gone, the forests she nurtured will continue to stand tall, whispering her story through the rustling of leaves.

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FAQ

Who is Tulsi Gowda?

Tulsi Gowda is the barefoot environmentalist who planted over 30,000 trees, earning the title of the living "Encyclopedia of Forest."

Why is Tulsi Gowda called the "Encyclopedia of Forest"?

Her deep knowledge of plants, seeds, and forest ecosystems could put any biology book to shame.

How many trees has Tulsi Gowda planted?

Over 30,000 trees – proving that green fingers can create green wonders.

What inspired Tulsi Gowda to become an environmentalist?

Growing up in a tribal community surrounded by forests, nature became her teacher and best friend.

What challenges did Tulsi Gowda face in her journey?

Poverty, illiteracy, and harsh environments – but her love for nature outgrew every obstacle.

Has Tulsi Gowda received any awards for her work?

Yes, including the Padma Shri, though she treasures every tree more than any trophy.

How does Tulsi Gowda’s work impact the environment?

Her trees restore ecosystems, fight climate change, and keep Karnataka's green lungs breathing.

Why does Tulsi Gowda walk barefoot?

Her feet connect with the earth, making every step a promise to protect nature.

What makes Tulsi Gowda’s knowledge of forests so special?

It's ancient wisdom passed down through generations, written not in books but in leaves and roots.

How can Tulsi Gowda inspire future environmentalists?

By proving that education comes in many forms – and the earth is the best classroom.

What is the legacy of Tulsi Gowda’s green journey?

A forest of knowledge, where every sapling tells the story of one woman’s devotion.

How can others follow Tulsi Gowda’s example?

By respecting nature, planting trees, and learning that wisdom grows when roots run deep.

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