At a time when people even after incoming lakhs of rupees do not feel it necessary to contribute a single penny for the sake of our environment, this daily wage earner from Jajpur district has been tirelessly planting trees for the last 40 years from his meager income. Yes, this 60-year-old environmentalist has been tirelessly planting trees, nurturing them, and protecting the forest, all without any government assistance. His selfless dedication has transformed acres of barren land into lush green pastures, earning him the title of Tree Man of Jajpur. So far, he has planted over one lakh trees and turned acres of land into green pastures in the district.
Meet Gunthiram Jena, the daily wage earner who has dedicated his life to giving back to nature.
Despite earning a meager income, Jena has managed to plant over one lakh trees, a staggering feat that speaks volumes about his commitment to the environment. Unlike many who prioritize personal gain, Jena’s focus has always been on giving back to nature, which he believes is the greatest wealth.
The 1999 super cyclone had a devastating impact on Odisha’s environment, leaving a significant scar on the state’s green cover. However, Jena’s relentless efforts have helped to mitigate the loss, particularly in Jajpur district. Starting at the age of 20, Jena has been planting trees in Similia, Markandpur, Basudevpur, and Bichirpur panchayats, bringing life and vibrancy back to the area. His dedication has made a tangible difference, restoring the beauty of nature that was lost to the cyclone’s fury.
Hailing from Uasahi in Basudevpur panchayat, Jena never incomes for living a quality life and provide a quality life to his children and wife. Jena’s love for nature is deeply rooted in his belief that “Nature is God and God is Nature.” This philosophy drives him to plant trees wherever he sees a barren spot, be it on a Sunday or a Monday. With seeds in his bag and a passion in his heart, Jena works tirelessly to green the district.
In a candid conversation with Ommcom News, Jena shared his story which is a reminder that even without substantial resources, one person’s dedication can make a significant impact. As he continues his noble work, Jena proves that true wealth lies in the health of our planet.
Ironically, Gunthiram Jena’s selfless work for environment has failed to catch the eye of the district administration. Despite his decades-long dedication to environmental conservation, he remains a daily wage earner, struggling to make ends meet. His modest thatched hut in the village is a testament to his simple life, where he resides with his wife and three daughters.
Every day, after a long day of physical labour, Jena dedicates his free time to planting trees, nurturing a passion that brings him immense joy. He leaves home with a bagful of saplings, seeds and a spade on his rusty bicycle. He sets out on a mission to a plant trees whatever the weather condition. Be it heavy downpour or scorching summer or chilling winter, he does not care and sow seeds whenever he gets a chance.
“Planting trees is just the beginning,” said Jena adding that “The real challenge lies in nurturing them and keeping them alive.” While it may seem daunting, caring for plants isn’t an impossible task. All we need is a little light, water, support, nutrients, and air. Like all living beings, trees need care to survive. But unlike us, they can’t cry out in pain, so it’s up to us to tend to them before it’s too late. Nature is our mother. Therefore, we have a duty towards Mother Nature.”
Jena’s journey as an environmentalist began with a simple yet profound moment. Growing up without a television, it was a radio broadcast that opened his eyes to the dangers of climate change and the importance of preserving green cover. “That talk was a turning point in my life. It gave me a new purpose, a reason to live. For me, planting trees has become an all-consuming passion, one that takes precedence even over providing for his family. For me, planting trees is a lifelong commitment that never fades,” maintained Jena with conviction.
Through this article, Jena, who has been felicitated with Prakruti Bandhu award, made a heartfelt appeal for help. Despite his tireless efforts to green the environment, his own family still struggles to find a safe and secure place to call home. They have been waiting for a house under the government’s housing scheme, for which Jena applied long ago. Despite multiple visits to the block office, a concrete dwelling remains a distant dream. Jena’s family yearns for a safe haven, and he hopes that through this platform, his plea will be heard.
By Rashmi Rekha Das
