Rajasthan

The famous rat temple near Bikaner is just one of the several instances of a conservation practice common to Rajasthan

VISIT MATA Karni Devi Temple at Deshnoke village near Bikaner and you won't be surprised by the rats scurrying freely in the shrine's precincts. Travel shows, including those on Discovery and National Geographic channels, have already covered the uniqueness extensively. The rodents, regarded as reincarnations of the goddess’s devotees, underscore the divine relationship we share with other living beings. However, a much deeper relation with nature is evident on the 2,100 hectare woodland near the temple which is regarded sacred. Called 'Oran' or 'Devbani' in local parlance

Lakholaav pond near Nagaur is a perfect example of community cooperation for water conservation

IN THE  times when tapped water supply is considered an absolute sign of development, the traditional water harvesting systems are losing their age-old relevance. This is why the Lakholaav pond in Rajasthan assumes greater significance. Located at Marwar Mundwa town in Nagaur district, Lakholaav is an exception. As ponds in other towns have shrunk due to encroachments and dumping of garbage, Lakholaav is providing drinking water to the town the whole year round. Citizens as well as the municipal committee take utmost care ensuring cleanliness and efficient management.

Forest management gets easy when benefits are shared with communities as was done in Oghna forest range