Bhubaneswar, Jul 10: Padma Shri awardee Jamuna Tudu, popularly known as 'Lady Tarzan', has emerged as one of India's most inspiring environmental crusaders for her relentless efforts to protect forests and promote community-led conservation. Her extraordinary work has earned nationwide recognition, including the affectionate title of "Lady Tarzan," acknowledged by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Originally from a modest background, Jamuna Tudu began her environmental mission in Potka, a village in Jharkhand, where she witnessed rampant deforestation carried out by timber smugglers and armed groups. Refusing to remain a silent spectator, she courageously stood up against illegal tree felling despite facing threats, marking the beginning of a lifelong campaign to safeguard forests.

One of her most impactful initiatives is the tradition of tying Rakhis to trees every year on World Environment Day, symbolizing the bond between humans and nature and reinforcing the responsibility to protect the environment. Inspired by her vision, villagers joined hands to establish the Van Suraksha Samiti (Forest Protection Committee), a grassroots movement dedicated to preventing illegal logging and conserving forest resources.

Through collective vigilance and community participation, the committee has successfully protected nearly 50 hectares of forest, preserving biodiversity and ensuring the survival of vital ecosystems. Jamuna Tudu's efforts have demonstrated the power of local communities in conserving natural resources and combating environmental degradation.

Her outstanding contribution to environmental conservation has been widely recognised. In 2018, she received the Woman Transforming India (WTI) Award, presented by NITI Aayog, for her exceptional role as a woman change-maker. The following year, in 2019, she was conferred the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honours, in recognition of her remarkable service to environmental protection.

Today, Jamuna Tudu stands as a symbol of courage, determination and grassroots leadership. Her journey continues to inspire people across the country to take responsibility for protecting forests and preserving nature for future generations.