In a remarkable story of dedication and environmental stewardship, a couple from Madhya Pradesh's Rewa district has transformed personal grief into a legacy of greenery. Dinanath Kol and his wife Nanki Devi, residents of Dhurkuch village in the Dabhaura region, chose to devote their lives to planting and nurturing trees after being unable to have children. Over the past 35 years, the couple has planted more than 10,000 saplings and converted nearly 105 acres of barren land into a dense forest.

Today, their creation stands as a symbol of perseverance, environmental protection, and community inspiration. What was once dry, rocky, and unproductive land is now covered with thousands of trees, providing a natural habitat for wildlife and contributing to the region's ecological balance.

According to local residents, the forest has become a well-known landmark in the area and is often referred to as a living example of how individual efforts can bring about significant environmental change.

A Mission Born from Adversity

Dinanath Kol recalls that his journey began in 1990 when he collected discarded mango seeds while returning from a local event and planted them on unused land. Many of the saplings failed to survive during the early years due to harsh conditions and limited resources. However, he remained committed to the effort.

The couple had faced social criticism and emotional challenges because they did not have children. During that difficult period, Nanki Devi suggested that instead of dwelling on their disappointment, they should dedicate themselves to a meaningful cause that would leave a lasting impact on society.

Inspired by that idea, the couple began planting trees regularly and gradually expanded their efforts. Over time, what started as a small initiative evolved into a vast forest ecosystem.

A Haven for Wildlife and Nature

The forest now contains a variety of fruit-bearing and medicinal trees, including mango, gooseberry, guava, and jujube. The dense greenery has significantly improved the local environment and helped restore biodiversity in the area.

Reports suggest that peacocks, deer, nilgai, rabbits, and numerous bird species now inhabit the forest. The once-barren landscape has become a thriving ecosystem filled with birdsong and natural vegetation.

Environmental observers note that such grassroots initiatives play an important role in combating land degradation, improving air quality, and supporting wildlife conservation.

The couple's journey was not without obstacles. To ensure a steady water supply for the saplings, they arranged for a well to be dug. However, the structure was later filled in after being classified as an encroachment. Water shortages led to the loss of several plants, but the couple continued their work despite the setbacks.

A Legacy of Dedication

Dinanath Kol says he considers the trees his children and has spent much of his life caring for them. Watching the forest grow has brought him a sense of fulfillment and purpose that extends beyond personal circumstances.

Their story highlights the power of determination and selfless service. At a time when environmental conservation has become a global priority, the couple's efforts demonstrate how individuals can make a lasting contribution to nature and society.

As governments and communities focus on increasing green cover and addressing climate challenges, the 105-acre forest created by Dinanath Kol and Nanki Devi stands as a powerful reminder that meaningful change often begins with a single act of commitment.

Their journey continues to inspire environmentalists, local communities, and nature lovers across the region, proving that dedication and vision can transform even the most barren landscapes into thriving ecosystems.

Jaishankar Urges BRICS to Deepen Cooperation, Push Reforms

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday called upon BRICS nations to find practical ways to deal with the fallout of ongoing global conflicts, economic volatility, and trade disruptions, even as India advances institutional reforms to accommodate the grouping’s expanded membership.

Opening the two-day BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting here, Jaishankar emphasised that the bloc must play a constructive and stabilising role amid growing uncertainty in international relations. The meeting at Bharat Mandapam brought together foreign ministers from core members including Russia, Brazil, and Iran, along with partner countries.

Time of considerable flux

“We meet at a time of considerable flux in international relations,” Jaishankar said in his opening remarks. “Ongoing conflicts, economic uncertainties, and challenges in trade, technology, and climate are shaping the global landscape.”

He noted that developing nations and emerging markets are increasingly looking to BRICS for stability and workable solutions. The minister stressed the need to reflect on global and regional developments and explore concrete steps to strengthen cooperation.

Institutional reforms under Indian chair

As the current chair, India has prioritised building a more inclusive and effective framework. Jaishankar highlighted progress in discussions on institutional development, including updating mechanisms to better integrate new members.

“It is essential for the smooth advancement of BRICS that later members fully appreciate and subscribe to BRICS’ consensus on various important issues,” he said.

Officials indicated that India’s chairmanship has already facilitated over 80 BRICS meetings involving all member states since January. This is India’s fourth stint at the helm, following previous summits in 2012, 2016, and 2021.

Development challenges in focus

Ministers are expected to address pressing issues affecting many countries, particularly in energy, food, fertiliser, and health security, as well as access to finance. Jaishankar said BRICS can help members respond more effectively to these challenges.

He also underlined the importance of reliable supply chains and diversified markets for building economic resilience in the face of global disruptions.

Climate, tech and equitable growth

Climate change figured prominently in the discussions. The minister called for sustainable development efforts guided by principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities.

On technology, Jaishankar pointed to the rapid pace of change and the need to harness innovations for inclusive growth and better governance.

Peace, security and counterterrorism

Peace and security issues remained central to the conversations. Recent conflicts have reinforced the importance of dialogue and diplomacy, Jaishankar noted. There was also strong emphasis on strengthening cooperation against terrorism, an area of shared interest among members.

The presence of Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and Russia’s Sergey Lavrov added weight to discussions on geopolitical challenges.

Looking ahead

The two-day meeting, scheduled for May 14 and 15, forms part of broader consultations on global economic governance, development priorities, and current geopolitical realities. Outcomes are expected to feed into further BRICS processes under India’s presidency.

Analysts see the gathering as an opportunity for the expanded bloc to demonstrate its relevance in a fragmented world order. With multiple partner countries participating, the focus remains on practical coordination rather than grand declarations.

Local diplomatic circles in New Delhi described the meeting as business-like, with delegations working through detailed agendas on multilateral reform and economic cooperation. Many observers believe successful institutional adjustments will determine how effectively BRICS can deliver on expectations of emerging economies.

As global attention remains fixed on multiple conflict zones and economic headwinds, India’s push for pragmatic cooperation reflects its longstanding approach of seeking inclusive solutions through platforms like BRICS.