International Tree Plantation Action Conference, Rajasthan/India

On Monday 28th July 2003, in the heart of the Indian Thar Desert, a significant multi-cultural and multi-religious environmental event took place. More than 200 delegates representing fourteen countries participated in an International Tree Plantation Action Conference. This occasion follows the United Nations' Earth Charter proposal to reforest arid regions of the world.

The initiator of this event was Mahamandaleshwar Vishwaguru Paramhans Sri Swami Maheshwarananda (Swamiji), world renowned author of the system Yoga in Daily Life. Today's action is another of many ecological and humanitarian activities that Swamiji has inspired and coordinated in recent years. A remarkable aspect of Swamiji's work is that all his plans come to practical realisation very quickly.

This event took place near the village of Bari Khatu, in Sri Deva Dungari Sannyas Ashram. One of the most important yogis and spiritual teachers of the modern world – Bhagvan Sri Deep Narayan Mahaprabhuji – lived and taught here for more than one hundred years. He was the inspiration and support for many people from all over India, and also a respected associate of social and political leaders in India, including Mahatma Gandhiji.

Tree planting in Bari Khatu