Honalli(Karnataka): Tulasi Gowda, known as the Encyclopedia of Forest is among the unsung heroes to receive the prestigious Padma Shri award, the fourth highest civilian honour for the year 2020. A 72-year old environmentalist, who has single-handedly planted more than 1,00,000 trees in Ankola taluk is known for her unmatched knowledge of diverse species of plants and herbs.
Coming from a village named Honalli in Karnataka, Tulasi Gowda is a dedicated nature-lover who has deep concerns for the environment.
Hailing from a simple and humble background, this Halakki tribal woman has worked hard to raise awareness about afforestation in her surroundings. Gowda has not received any formal education but has a vast and extensive knowledge about plants.
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Tulasi continues to preserve nature and has committed her life in growing saplings. She cares for them, nurtures them as her own children till they can stand on their own.
This nature enthusiast is actively involved in afforestation programmes. She has expressed outrage at the rampant deforestation in her village due to unchecked development.
Tulasi Gowda has been felicitated several times by Karnataka government for her environmental contributions. She is a Rajyotsava awardee from the state and her efforts are widely appreciated.
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