G.Bhaskar Reddy(Tree Hugger)
Human Rights South Indian President, Environmentalist, Hindhupur, Sri Sathyasai , Andhra Pradesh
Leadership and Environmental Advocacy of Mr. G. Bhaskar Reddy
As President of Human Rights South India since 2021, I, G. Bhaskar Reddy, have dedicated myself to advocating for justice, equality, and the protection of human rights throughout South India. My role involves ensuring that individuals and communities have their voices heard and their rights upheld. At the same time, I have been actively involved in environmental conservation, working tirelessly to preserve natural resources and promote sustainable practices. My efforts reflect a deep commitment to balancing development with ecological responsibility for a sustainable future.
In 2021, I launched a focused initiative to protect our environment, tackling illegal logging and collaborating with the forest department to enforce the WALTA Act. Despite facing challenges from the timber mafia and limited support from government bodies, I remained steadfast in my mission, intervening to prevent unauthorized tree cutting and forming alliances to bolster our efforts. My work includes planting millions of saplings and engaging the community in reforestation and environmental awareness. Through these actions, I aim to foster a culture of environmental stewardship and advocate for the necessary measures to safeguard our natural resources.
G.Bhaskar Reddy(Tree Hugger)
Human Rights South Indian President, Environmentalist
Early Life and Educational Journey of Mr G. Bhaskar Reddy
Birth and Family Heritage
Born on September 7, 1961, in the historic town of Hindupur, Mr G. Bhaskar Reddy hails from a well-respected family. He is the proud son of Mr. G. Narayan Reddy, a prominent figure known for his contributions to the community. Growing up in a family that valued integrity and education, Mr. Bhaskar Reddy was instilled with strong principles from a young age.
Foundations of Education
Mr Bhaskar Reddy’s educational journey began at MGM High School in Hindupur, where he laid the groundwork for his future endeavours by completing his Secondary School Certificate (SSC). At MGM High School, he exhibited a keen interest in academics, consistently demonstrating his commitment to learning and personal growth.
Pursuit of Higher Education
Following his early education, Mr. Bhaskar Reddy advanced to SDGS College in Hindupur, a reputable institution that further shaped his intellectual and personal development. There, he completed his Intermediate studies, setting a solid foundation for his higher education. His passion for knowledge and determination to excel led him to pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree at SDGS College. His academic achievements during this period were marked by his dedication to his studies and the broader ideals of social service.
Professional Endeavors of Mr G. Bhaskar Reddy
Career as a Contractor and City Cable Maintainer (1996-2000)
From 1996 to 2000, Mr. G. Bhaskar Reddy built a strong foundation in the business world by working as a contractor and city cable maintainer in Hindupur. During this period, he managed and maintained city cable networks, ensuring seamless communication services for the local community. His work in this field highlighted his technical expertise and ability to manage complex operations and deliver reliable services.
Venture into the Mining Industry (2000-2020)
In 2000, Mr. Bhaskar Reddy expanded his entrepreneurial horizons by venturing into the mining industry. He established his business operations in Karnataka’s Jotipura, Kotagiri, and Chikkamagalur. Over the next two decades, from 2000 to 2020, he successfully managed mining activities, contributing to the region’s economic growth. His deep understanding of the industry and his strategic vision enabled him to navigate the mining sector’s challenges and build a thriving business. This phase of his career was marked by his commitment to ethical business practices and sustainable development, earning him a reputation as a respected leader in the industry.
Leadership and Advocacy Roles of Mr G. Bhaskar Reddy
President of Human Rights, South India (2021-Till Now)
Since 2021, Mr. G. Bhaskar Reddy has taken on a significant leadership role as the President of Human Rights for South India. In this capacity, he has been a vocal advocate for justice, equality, and the protection of fundamental human rights across the region. His leadership is characterised by a deep commitment to safeguarding the rights of individuals and communities, ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights are upheld. Through his work, Mr Bhaskar Reddy has contributed substantially to promoting human dignity and social justice in South India.
Dedication to Environmental Conservation (2021-Till Now)
Alongside his work in human rights, Mr. Bhaskar Reddy has been an active environmentalist in Hindupur since 2021. His passion for environmental conservation has driven him to take on various initiatives to preserve natural resources, promote sustainable practices, and raise awareness about the importance of protecting the environment. His efforts reflect a deep-seated belief in the need to balance development with ecological responsibility, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable future for generations to come.
Environmental Protection Efforts by Mr G. Bhaskar Reddy
Initiation of Environmental Protection Efforts (2021)
In 2021, Mr G. Bhaskar Reddy embarked on a dedicated mission to protect the environment, mainly focusing on preserving trees. Recognising the urgent need to combat illegal logging, he collaborated with the forest department in Anantapur district. His efforts were centred on enforcing the WALTA Act, a critical piece of legislation aimed at protecting water, land, and trees in Andhra Pradesh. Through his work, he played a pivotal role in stopping the illegal felling of trees, particularly in protected reserves and forests, and curbing the unauthorised sale of timber.
Challenges with the Timber Mafia and Forest Department
Despite initial successes in reducing illegal logging, Mr Bhaskar Reddy faced significant challenges as the timber mafia continued its illegal activities. The scale of illegal tree felling was vast, with thousands of trees being cut down without permission, which led to criticism and scrutiny. However, Mr Bhaskar Reddy remained committed to his cause, working tirelessly to prevent further unauthorised logging. He intervened directly to stop the forest department from cutting down trees on government lands and ensured that both public and private areas were safeguarded.
Limited Support and Formation of Alliances
In his efforts to protect the environment, Mr. Bhaskar Reddy encountered minimal support from government officials and institutions like the National Green Tribunal (NGT). He continued his fight despite lacking backing, forming strategic alliances to strengthen his position. One notable partnership was with an army officer whose support was instrumental in halting further illegal logging. Mr Bhaskar Reddy and his team were also successful in seizing and handing over illegally cut timber to the forest department, particularly in the Suguru area, highlighting their determination to uphold environmental laws.
Personal Sacrifices and Attacks
Mr. Bhaskar Reddy’s unwavering commitment to environmental protection came at a personal cost. He faced numerous attacks from those involved in illegal logging, including the timber mafia and even certain forest department officials. His home was targeted, and he endured significant personal risk as he continued to challenge the illegal activities that threatened the region’s forests. Despite these challenges, he remained steadfast in his mission, refusing to back down in the face of intimidation.
Community Engagement and Reforestation Initiatives
Beyond enforcement, Mr Bhaskar Reddy took a proactive approach to environmental conservation by personally funding the planting of 18 lakhs saplings across the Anantapur and Sri Sathya Sai districts. His commitment to reforestation was demonstrated through various community initiatives, including a plantation drive during the NSS special camp organised by Bala Yesu Vidya Sansthan in Hindupuram. In this program, students planted saplings around schools and temples in several villages within the Lepakshi mandal. These efforts, conducted under the Human Rights Association of South India, where Mr Bhaskar Reddy serves as president, emphasise his belief that caring for plants is a collective responsibility.
Participation in Environmental and Cultural Programs
Mr. Bhaskar Reddy has been actively involved in numerous environmental and cultural programs, using these platforms to promote awareness about the importance of environmental conservation. He participated in significant events such as the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav and the Ananta Koti Vriksha Mahotsava, where he led the planting of hundreds of saplings. His involvement in cultural activities, like the Indian cultural art performance competition by Abhijna Nrityayalam, further underscores his dedication to integrating environmental stewardship with community engagement.
Advocacy Against Timber Mafia and Government Inaction
Mr Bhaskar Reddy has been a vocal critic of the timber mafia’s activities and the authorities’ lack of adequate action in Hindupuram and surrounding areas. He has consistently called for stronger measures to protect trees and warned about the dire consequences of continued deforestation, including the potential need for oxygen cylinders. His advocacy highlights the importance of collective action in preserving the environment, urging everyone to take responsibility for protecting trees and preventing further destruction.
Commemorative and Large-Scale Tree Planting Initiatives
In a unique effort to promote environmental consciousness, Mr Bhaskar Reddy led the distribution of 65,000 saplings across Sri Sathya Sai District to commemorate Balayya Babu’s 65th birthday. As part of this initiative, 10,000 saplings of various species were distributed in Hindupuram under the leadership of Mr Bhaskar Reddy and the National Human Rights Culture and Nature Development Organization. This large-scale tree-planting initiative further cemented his reputation as a dedicated environmentalist committed to preserving natural resources.
Appeals to Government Authorities for Environmental Protection
Concerned about the ongoing destruction of the environment facilitated by brokers and forest officials, Mr Bhaskar Reddy has formally appealed to high-ranking government officials, including the Chief Secretary and Environment Minister Pawan Kalyan, urging immediate action. His calls for intervention reflect his deep commitment to safeguarding the environment and holding those responsible for its degradation accountable.
Celebration of Environmental Events and Community Programs
Mr. Bhaskar Reddy’s environmental advocacy also includes active participation in environmental events and community programs. He participated in the plantation program at Guddam Ranganatha Swamy precinct and celebrated Environment Day alongside forest department judges, advocates, district SP, police officers, college principals, students, and fellow environmentalists. These events underscore his ongoing efforts to raise awareness and foster a culture of environmental responsibility within the community.
Championing Environmental Conservation: The Remarkable Efforts of Bhaskar Reddy
- Safeguarding Nature in Suguru: In a commendable move, Bhaskar Reddy’s team handed over illegally cut trees to the forest department in the Suguru area, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to environmental protection.
- Honouring Father Vincentfurrer with a Green Tribute: On the 13th death anniversary of Father Vincentfurrer, the founder of the Rural Development Trust (RDT), Bhaskar Reddy led a sapling plantation program at Rajima Colony Primary School. This initiative honoured Father Vincentfurrer’s legacy and reinforced Bhaskar Reddy’s dedication to fostering a greener future.
- Advocating for Responsible Forestry in Anantapur and Sri Sathya Sai Districts: In the drought-prone regions of Anantapur and Sri Sathya Sai, Bhaskar Reddy highlighted the importance of obtaining proper permissions before cutting down trees. He emphasised the responsibility of revenue authorities and the public to prevent unauthorised deforestation and protect the environment.
- Environment Protection and Pollution Eradication Day: Marking this significant day, municipal officials, guided by Bhaskar Reddy, monitored the planting of trees across various municipal and panchayat areas. Bhaskar Reddy passionately advocated for the planting and nurturing of trees, stating, “No machine has been invented to replace the work of a tree.”
- Community-Driven Plantation in Hindupuram: In the tenth ward of Hindupuram, Bhaskar Reddy led a plantation drive with the participation of residents and Secretariat staff. The community vowed not only to plant saplings but also to nurture them, ensuring long-term environmental benefits.
- Educational Initiatives: At Hindupuram Nandu Gurukula School, 600 students initiated a plantation program under Bhaskar Reddy’s guidance. Each student was tasked with planting and nurturing a sapling, fostering a sense of responsibility towards the environment from a young age.
- Ambedkar Gurukula College: Under Bhaskar Reddy’s leadership, a sapling program was conducted like a festival, reflecting his passion for environmental conservation.
- Transforming Hindupuram into Ooty: Bhaskar Reddy’s vision for Hindupuram includes changing it into a verdant paradise. He aims to instill a habit of tree plantation among the residents through consistent tree planting.
- Daily Commitment at Guddam Ranganatha Swamy Temple: Approximately 200 saplings are planted daily on the 25-acre premises of Hindupuram’s Guddam Ranganatha Swamy temple. Bhaskar Reddy’s efforts have inspired others, like committee member Venkatesh and Auditor Chandrasekhar Reddy, to contribute to the cause.
- Environmental Awareness in Phulkunta Village: Bhaskar Reddy led a sapling plantation at ZP High School, where he was lauded for his efforts in educating children about environmental conservation.
- Honouring Kargil War Heroes: Saplings were planted in memory of Kargil war heroes at a municipal complex, further solidifying Bhaskar Reddy’s commitment to environmental protection and national pride.
- Dharitri Day at Kodigenahalli Gurukula School: On World Dharitri Day, a large-scale sapling plantation was organised under Bhaskar Reddy’s guidance. The event saw participation from local leaders, school staff, and students, all united in their mission to combat pollution and preserve the environment.
- A Call to Action: Bhaskar Reddy has called for strict penalties against those who uproot trees without permission, urging higher authorities to take immediate action. He believes that imposing fines will deter others and protect the environment.
- Sapling Plantation by Sri Sri Kamalananda Bharti Swamiji: With only 3% of Anantapur district covered in greenery, compared to the ideal 33%, Swamiji, under Bhaskar Reddy’s leadership, called upon the community to plant two saplings each, striving towards a greener future
H.No: 26/4/1198A, Village: Hindhupur, Mandal: Hindhupur, District: Sri Sathyasai , State: Andhra Pradesh, Pincode: 515201.
Mobile No: 9108901769
Gmail: [email protected]
Bhaskar Reddy engaged in and influenced in Assorted Activities
Significantly Contributed to Various Activities
Active Participation in Social Activities
Honor Ceremony
Various Plantation Programs
News Paper Clippings
Videos
Born in Hindhupur
Sri Sathyasai , Andhra Pradesh
Completed SSC
MGM High School, Hindhupur
Completed Intermidiate
SDGS College, Hindhupur
Completed Graduation(BA)
SDGS College, Hindhupur
Worked as contractor and city cable maintainer
Hindhupur
Mining Business
Karnakata
Human Rights South Indian President
Environmentalist
Hindhupur