Devaki Amma, an 85-year-old woman from Kerala, India, has spent four decades growing a lush forest all by herself on her private property, covering five acres of land in the Onattukara region. Despite having no formal education and facing physical challenges after an accident, Devaki Amma's dedication to the environment led her to plant her first sapling, which eventually grew into a sprawling forest with diverse plant species. Her family, spanning four generations, has supported her in this mission, making it a collective effort. Devaki Amma's forest has not only provided fruits, flowers, and vegetables but has also attracted exotic and migratory birds. She emphasizes the importance of planting trees to neutralize carbon footprints and practices rainwater harvesting. Her remarkable efforts earned her national recognition, including the Nari Shakti Puruskar from government of India, for her contribution to protecting biodiversity and raising awareness about environmental conservation. Devaki Amma's legacy inspires us to take action and make positive changes for the environment.
