A dedicated camel herder from Jaisalmer, Sumer Singh Bhati, has earned global recognition for his unwavering commitment to protecting and revitalizing the vast Degrai Mata Oran grasslands in Rajasthan. His inspiring efforts have successfully rejuvenated vital ecosystems, benefiting thousands of pastoral families and safeguarding endangered wildlife.
Sumer Singh Bhati, a dedicated traditional camel herder from Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, has been globally recognized with a Rangeland Award 2026 for his tireless efforts to protect and revitalize the vast Degrai Mata Oran grasslands. His profound understanding of the land, rooted in generations of camel herding, has fueled a remarkable movement that spans nearly 10,000 hectares, supporting over 5,000 pastoral families and 50,000 livestock animals.
Bhati's journey began with a deep connection to the native Sewan and Dhaman grasses, which he describes as "like ghee and milk for camels, extremely nutritious." This simple, yet crucial, relationship between grass, animal, and herder became the cornerstone of his advocacy. Witnessing parts of this vital land remain vulnerable in official records, Bhati initiated a powerful grassroots campaign. He engaged nearly 20 communities, walking hundreds of kilometers to raise awareness and bring their concerns to wider attention.
Through his inspiring leadership, native grasses have made a remarkable return, traditional water bodies have been successfully revived, and the grazing grounds have begun to flourish once more. Bhati’s comprehensive vision extends beyond livestock, recognizing the inseparable link between protecting the land and safeguarding its diverse wildlife, including the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard and the elusive Asiatic Caracal.
His advocacy reached new heights with the 'Oran Bachao Padyatra,' an 85-day, 700-km foot march, which brought the plight of the grasslands to the state capital. This Gandhian-inspired movement resulted in approximately 3,800 additional hectares of land being officially protected in government records. Furthermore, his efforts have drawn national attention, leading to an intervention application seeking constitutional protection for orans being taken on record by the Supreme Court in April 2026.
Bhati's work is a testament to the power of community-led conservation, demonstrating how respecting traditional ecological knowledge can lead to sustainable outcomes for both people and nature. His story highlights the profound impact one individual's dedication can have in fostering environmental stewardship and ensuring a thriving future for precious ecosystems.
Source: The Better India