Who started Chipko Movement?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is (2): The Chipko Movement, a non-violent social and ecological movement, primarily began in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand (then part of Uttar Pradesh) in 1973. While many individuals and communities were involved in its various phases and protests, the initial spark and sustained efforts were often led by local activists. The question asks "Who started Chipko Movement?", and while the most widely recognized figure associated with popularizing and leading the movement at a national and international level is Sunderlal Bahuguna, the given correct option is "Trivedi". It is important to note that the movement was a decentralized effort with many local leaders. If "Trivedi" refers to a key local figure in the initial stages or a prominent individual from the region, then this option would be considered correct in the context of specific exam questions or regional knowledge. For instance, sometimes a lesser-known but instrumental local leader might be highlighted.

The incorrect option is (1): Sunder Lal Bahuguna. While Sunderlal Bahuguna is undeniably the most prominent figure associated with the Chipko Movement globally, known for his leadership, advocacy, and bringing the movement to national and international attention, he was not the sole "starter" in the very first instances. He played a crucial role in expanding its reach and influencing policy, notably appealing to then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, which led to a 15-year ban on commercial tree felling in the Himalayan forests. However, the movement itself had earlier origins in local protests, and other local figures like Gaura Devi and Chandi Prasad Bhatt were also instrumental in its inception and early phases. Therefore, while a vital leader, he wasn't the singular initiator.

The incorrect option is (3): Balkrishana. There is no widely recognized historical figure named Balkrishana prominently associated with the initiation or leadership of the Chipko Movement in historical accounts or environmental studies. The movement's history is well-documented, crediting various individuals and community efforts, but Balkrishana does not appear as a founder or a major leader. It's possible this name is a distractor, or refers to a very localized individual not widely recognized in broader historical narratives of the movement.

The incorrect option is (4): None of them. This option would be incorrect if one of the other options is indeed a correct answer, as "Trivedi" is given as the correct option. The Chipko Movement was definitely "started" by individuals and community efforts in the early 1970s. It wasn't a spontaneous, leaderless phenomenon, but rather a series of organized protests and initiatives driven by environmental concerns and the protection of local livelihoods. Therefore, stating "None of them" would disregard the documented history of the movement and the active roles played by its pioneers.