Archive · 11 Jun 2025
Rajasthan Professor & Villagers Transform Mining Wasteland
A professor and villagers in Rajasthan transformed a damaged mining area into a wildlife haven.
They replanted trees and grass, and made water sources.
Around 2,500 villagers worked to restore the land and create a safe environment.
This project faced opposition from those who were involved in illegal mining, but the community stood strong.
Now, animals like jackals and deer have returned to the area.
The project shows how communities can work together to protect nature.
Professor Shyam Sunder Jyani led a project to restore a gypsum-mined wasteland near Uttamdesar village in Rajasthan.
The restoration involved fencing, replanting native trees and grass, and creating water sources.
Around 2,500 villagers actively participated in the project, with additional support from a broader community initiative.
The project faced resistance from illegal mining interests, leading to threats against Jyani and local residents.
The restored area has become a habitat for wildlife, including jackals, nilgai, and Asiatic wild cats.
- Who
- Led by Professor Shyam Sunder Jyani, with the help of 2,500 villagers.
- What
- Restoration of a gypsum-mined wasteland into a wildlife haven.
- When
- Initiated in 2022.
- Where
- Near Uttamdesar village in the Bikaner district of Rajasthan.
- Why
- To reverse environmental damage caused by gypsum mining and create a flourishing ecosystem.
Environmental Restoration Advocates
Illegal Mining Interests
Land Usage
Environmental Restoration Advocates
Emphasized community action and environmental stewardship.
Illegal Mining Interests
Prioritized illegal mining operations.
- Project Lead
- Shyam Sunder Jyani
- Location
- Uttamdesar village, Rajasthan
- Area Restored
- 84 hectares
- Villager Participation
- Approx. 2,500
- Funding
- ₹1 crore from villagers
- Key Species Returning
- Jackals, nilgai, Asiatic wild cat