From Apple Orchards to Khejri Trees: The Same Battle Between Development and the Environment

AMARPAL SINGH VERMA

The central government’s recent decision to halt three proposed railway projects in Kashmir sends an important message. The decision was taken to protect apple orchards that were under direct threat from the planned railway lines. This step is commendable not only from an environmental perspective but also as a major relief for thousands of farmers whose livelihoods depend entirely on apple cultivation.
 
The proposed railway routes were likely to lead to the cutting of thousands of apple trees in areas such as Pulwama, Shopian, and Anantnag. These regions form the heart of Kashmir’s apple economy and are considered the backbone of its rural livelihood. For nearly a year, farmers lived with the fear that development would cost them their land and their only source of income. This anxiety pushed them to protest and demand the withdrawal of the projects. Eventually, the railway minister clarified that the projects were stopped following recommendations from the Jammu and Kashmir government and local Members of Parliament, in order to prevent damage to the orchards.

This decision shows that when the government chooses to, it can strike a balance between development and environmental protection. The larger question, however, is whether the same sensitivity is being shown in other parts of the country.

This is where the ongoing “Save Khejri, Save Nature” movement in Bikaner, Rajasthan, becomes impossible to ignore. The movement has emerged in protest against environmental damage caused by large-scale solar power projects. Under the banner of the Environmental Struggle Committee, a three-day sit-in was organised in Bikaner. Initially, 363 environmental activists began a hunger strike, a number that later rose to 450. Among them were 29 saints, one nun, and 68 women. Protesters ranged in age from 18-year-old youth to 80-year-old elders.
On the third day, the health of 17 hunger strikers deteriorated, and three of them had to be admitted to PBM Hospital in critical condition. Two temporary hospitals with 75 beds each have now been set up at the protest site. These developments underline the seriousness of the movement and the depth of concern among the people who are fighting to save the Khejri tree in Rajasthan.

It is widely known that Rajasthan is rapidly emerging as a major hub for solar energy in India. Large solar power plants are being established in districts such as Jaisalmer, Barmer, Bikaner, and Jodhpur. Governments and corporations claim that these projects will meet future energy demands and transform India’s energy landscape. But the real question remains—what is the cost of this development?

Environmental activists argue that over the past decade, millions of trees have been cut down in Rajasthan to make way for solar projects. Among them are Khejri trees—traditional, life-sustaining trees that are deeply rooted in the desert ecosystem. The Khejri is often called the “Kalpavriksha” of Rajasthan. It stabilises the fragile desert environment and provides sangri (a traditional vegetable), fodder for animals, and livelihood support for rural communities. From birth rituals to marriage ceremonies and even death rites, the Khejri tree is woven into the social and cultural fabric of Rajasthan.

 

(A Khejri Tree)
A study by Professor Anil Chhangani of the Environmental Studies Department at Maharaja Ganga Singh University reveals that nearly five million trees have been cut in the last ten years for solar installations. These include Khejri, ber, ker, rohida, and babool. Research also indicates that temperatures around solar plants rise by an average of 4–5 degrees Celsius. Tree loss has destroyed habitats of insects, bees, butterflies, birds, and other wildlife. Gum collection has declined, fodder scarcity has increased, and rural livelihoods are under pressure. Moreover, solar plants require large amounts of water for cleaning and cooling—at a time when Rajasthan is already facing severe water stress.

There is no denying that solar energy is a necessity of our times. Coal, nuclear, and gas-based power generation causes pollution, and coal reserves are rapidly depleting. Moving towards alternative energy sources is unavoidable. But does that mean we must ignore environmental balance and traditional life systems?

This is where the comparison between Kashmir and Bikaner becomes essential. In Kashmir, development projects were halted to protect apple orchards. The government acknowledged that development has no justification if it destroys livelihoods and the environment. In Rajasthan, however, those demanding protection for Khejri trees and the desert ecosystem are still being forced to struggle.

Apple orchards in Kashmir and Khejri trees in Rajasthan are both pillars of their respective regional economies and cultures. The difference lies only in response—sensitivity was shown in one case, while voices remain unheard in the other. This raises uncomfortable questions. Does the definition of development change from one region to another? Are trees in one state more valuable than those in another?

What is needed is a clear and strict environmental framework for solar energy projects. Companies must be held accountable for tree cutting, water use, and the protection of local biodiversity. Policies must ensure the participation of local communities, so that development does not work against them but grows with their consent and involvement.

The decision taken for Kashmir proves that when there is political will, both environment and livelihoods can be protected. This step deserves appreciation. Now, a similar resolve is required in Rajasthan to protect the Khejri tree. Because while new energy is important, nature is essential—and without it, neither development nor life itself can survive. The Khejri is not just a tree; it is an inseparable part of folk life and folk culture. Ignoring it would mean ignoring the very roots of the desert society.

(The author is a senior journalist. Views are personal. Email: vermaamarpalsingh@gmail.com)