'Khejri Bachao Andolan': Why Rajasthan is rallying to protect its 'Kalpavriksha'

A significant protest is under way in Rajasthan over the felling of the khejri tree. Communities are demanding stronger protection for the state tree, alleging that it is being cut to make way for solar power projects. Political leaders across parties have joined the movement, drawing attention to the tree’s cultural and ecological significance. In an arid landscape where survival is closely tied to ecology, the debate in western Rajasthan now extends beyond development to questions of history, identity and survival.