Rising from the verdant landscapes of Odisha’s Sundergarh district, Ranjit Majhi, a tribal man, emerges as a beacon of change, championing the cause of forest rights across 112 villages. His unwavering dedication earns him the prestigious Shambhavi Puraskar.

In a heartening ceremony orchestrated by the Bansidhar and Ila Panda Foundation (BIPF), Ranjit Majhi’s tireless efforts in advancing the Forest Rights Act (FRA) reverberated through the halls. The foundation, an arm of Indian Metals and Ferro Alloys Limited (IMFA), bestowed upon him the coveted award, along with a commendation and a cash prize of Rs 2.5 lakh.

Gratitude illuminated Majhi’s face as he expressed his appreciation to the BIPF for acknowledging his endeavors in regions where even an internet connection is a rarity. Majhi’s journey epitomizes resilience and grassroots activism, navigating the challenging terrain of remote forest areas to empower communities with their rightful claims over land and resources.

“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition, but the real victory lies in the collective empowerment of my fellow forest-dwellers,” Majhi remarked, underscoring the collaborative spirit underpinning his work.

His advocacy extends beyond legal frameworks, fostering a symbiotic relationship between forest conservation and community livelihoods. Through awareness campaigns and grassroots mobilization, Majhi champions the sustainable management of forest ecosystems, ensuring their preservation for generations to come.

The Shambhavi Puraskar stands as a testament to Majhi’s unwavering commitment and serves as a clarion call for further collective action in safeguarding the rights of marginalized communities. As Odisha’s forests echo with the voices of empowerment, Majhi’s legacy illuminates a path towards inclusive development and environmental stewardship.