Tulsi Gowda, the ‘Encyclopedia of Forest’, Dies At 86 (image: x.com/NITGoa_Official)

Ankola, Karnataka: Environmentalist and Padma Awardee Tulsi Gowda died on Monday evening at her residence in Uttara Kannada district due to age-related ailments. She was 86. Called as “Encyclopedia of Forest,” she possessed an immense knowledge of plants and herbs. She is also widely appreciated as a legendary tree planter, as she had planted over 30,000 saplings across Karnataka.

Gowda’s contributions played a significant role in replenishing one community reserve, five tiger reserves, 15 conservation reserves, and thirty wildlife sanctuaries, ensuring the preservation of diverse ecosystems, Indian Express reports.

Also Read | What Happened With ONOE Bill In The Parliament

Hailing from Honnalli village, Gowda belonged to indigenous Halakki community. From a very early age, she developed a deep interest in plants and trees around her. Her fascination and connection with nature could evident throughout her life. Gowda’s efforts to foster and protect various plant species has also earned her the coveted title, ‘Vriksha Maata’ or Mother of Trees. In 2021, in due recognition of Gowda’s exceptional work in environmental conservation, she was honoured with the Padma Shri, the country’s fourth-highest civilian award.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah extended condolence over the death of legendary tree planter.

Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, “The passing away of Karnataka’s environmentalist and Padma awardee, Mrs. Tulsi Gowda, is deeply saddened. She dedicated her entire life to the preservation of nature, planting and nurturing thousands of trees and protecting our environment. She will always remain a guiding light for environmental protection. Her work will continue to inspire generations to protect our planet. Condolences to her family and fans. Om Shanti.”

Also Read | NTA To Hold Only Higher Education Tests, NEET Format Decision Soon: Minister

Karnataka Chief Minister wrote, “I am saddened by the passing away of Tulasi Gowda, an environmentalist from Honnalli, Ankola taluk, who planted and watered lakhs of trees. Tulasi Gowda, who worked as a daily wage laborer in the Forest Department to earn a living, continued to plant trees even after retirement without deviating from his environmental concerns and was awarded the highest honor like the Padma Shri. Remembering Tulsigowda’s love and concern for the environment, I pray for eternal peace for his departed soul.”