Why In News?

• Every year on 11 September, India observes National Forest Martyrs’ Day to honour forest personnel who sacrificed their lives in protecting forests and wildlife.
• The day is also observed in Assam and other states with special remembrance ceremonies, tree plantation drives, and awareness programmes.

Key Details

• Origin: The Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India, declared 11 September as National Forest Martyrs’ Day in 2013.
• Reason for the Date: It commemorates the 1730 Khejarli massacre in Rajasthan, where more than 360 Bishnoi community members laid down their lives while protecting Khejri trees from being cut by the king’s soldiers.

• Objective:

  • To remember the sacrifices of forest personnel and local communities in safeguarding forests.
  • To spread awareness about the importance of forest conservation, biodiversity, and sustainable living.

Consider the following statements about Forest Martyrs’ Day:

1. It is observed every year on 11 September across India.
2. It was declared in 2013 by the Ministry of Environment and Forests.
3. The day commemorates the sacrifice of the Bishnoi community in Rajasthan’s Khejarli village in 1730.
4. It is observed only in forest-rich states like Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

1. a) 1, 2 and 3 only
   b) 2 and 4 only
   c) 1 and 3 only
   d) All of the above

Answer: a)