Forest Man of India: The Inspiring Journey of Jadav Payeng

Jadav Payeng was born on October 31, 1959, in the Jorhat district of Assam, India.

He single-handedly planted and nurtured a forest spanning about 1,360 acres on the sandbar of the Brahmaputra River. This forest, known as the Molai Forest, is named after him.

Payeng's journey began in 1979 when he was just 16 years old. He started planting trees on a barren sandbar after witnessing the death of a large number of reptiles due to heat exposure.

His initial efforts included planting bamboo, and over the years, he expanded his efforts to include a variety of tree species.

The Molai Forest now hosts a wide range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species like the Royal Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros, and a variety of birds and reptiles.

In 2015, Jadav Payeng was honored with the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award in India, for his exceptional contribution to environmental conservation.

His life and work have been the subject of various documentaries, including "Forest Man," which has brought international attention to his efforts.

Payeng travels to various educational institutions and environmental forums to spread awareness about the importance of environmental conservation and reforestation.

His work has inspired many across the globe to take up the cause of reforestation and environmental preservation.

Jadav Payeng leads a simple life in a small village near the forest he created. He continues to work tirelessly to maintain and expand his forest, emphasizing the importance of living in harmony with nature.