SAVING OF ARAVALLIS': A HISTORICAL STUDY OF SOCIAL MOVEMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS

Rajasthan has a long history, and people from ancient times till date are contributing their efforts to save the natural resources from the desert to the hills. Ancient literature displays a great understanding of the environment, notably in relation to the Aravali Range, which has provided nourishment and spiritual importance for millennia. The paper emphasizes the necessity of conservation by outlining human responsibilities in maintaining a complete and healthy environment. Texts such as the “Manusmriti” and the “Arthasastra” demonstrate a grasp of nature's connectivity to human well-being, highlighting the importance of protecting forests, trees, and wildlife. Texts mentioned in “Rigveda” and “Atharveda” describe the environment and the base of creation of huma, namely water, fire, air, sky and earth. The history and evolution of countries, races, and cultures have been influenced by the environment, various factors that hinder the survival and growth of their inhabitants' livelihoods. This has led to a need to develop awareness among the people to rescue the environment. The study will put an emphasis on the history of Social Awareness by the people to rescue the Aravali and its adjacent area. Right from the long 17th century till date, people and rulers from different dynasties have contributed their efforts to keep the Aravali as a lifeline. Beginning from the Khejri movement in 1730 by the Bishnoi Society people to date. Since 1990, the Government has also put its efforts into Policy, law, and different initiatives to save the environment