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Mongabay

Father Robert Athickal asked children to protect the living world

Father Robert Athickal inspired children in Patna, India, to take environmental action by starting a movement that grew into one of the country's largest student-led efforts to protect nature. He combined religious teachings with local traditions to encourage young people to restore land, plant trees, and advocate for environmental care. By empowering students with real responsibilities, he showed how small, local initiatives could lead to widespread impact. His work helped raise awareness and fostered a generation of environmentally conscious young activists.

What happened

A Jesuit priest in India inspired students to start an environmental movement by planting trees and protecting nature.

Why it matters

The movement grew from small local efforts into a major campaign involving thousands of young people across the country.

Why it belongs here

It shows how trust in young people and simple, local actions can lead to meaningful, long-term environmental change.

environmentlocal winsscience

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