In the small village of Murarpatti in Raghunathpur block of Siwan district, Bihar, a simple yet determined woman is about to bring immense pride to her community. Known for her dedication to environmental protection, Putul Devi, a member of the Jeevika Didi Group, will be honoured by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, on 15 August 2025. This national recognition comes in appreciation of her exceptional contribution over the past five years in the fields of forest conservation, water preservation, and promoting greenery.
Invitation from Rashtrapati Bhavan
On 2 August 2025, officials from the Forest Department and central authorities visited Murarpatti to hand over a formal invitation letter from Rashtrapati Bhavan. The news filled the entire village with joy and pride. For Putul Devi, it was an emotional and proud moment, one she will cherish forever. As per the schedule, she will leave for Patna on 13 August and then travel to Delhi with government officials. The invitation also mentions her mandatory presence at the ceremonial dinner at Rashtrapati Bhavan on the evening of Independence Day.
Journey with Jeevika Group
Putul Devi’s environmental journey began in 2015 when she joined the Jeevika group. Initially, she participated in small-scale plantation drives. Over time, her work expanded, and by 2020 she had established a nursery under the Jeevika Didi initiative. From here, she began producing, nurturing, and distributing saplings, many of which are supplied in bulk to the Forest Department for large-scale plantation drives across Siwan. Her efforts have played a crucial role in boosting the district’s greenery and contributing to sustainable development.
‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ – A Special Campaign
One of the initiatives close to her heart is Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s campaign, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam. With support from the Forest Department, Putul Devi introduced this movement to her area. Every World Environment Day, she gifts a sapling to around 500 women from the Jeevika group, encouraging them to plant it in their surroundings. She also plants a tree in memory of her mother every year. For her, trees are not just part of the environment—they are a living legacy for future generations, preserving ecological balance and sustaining life.
Supporting Jal Jeevan Hariyali
Under the Bihar government’s Jal Jeevan Hariyali campaign, Putul Devi’s nursery has supplied thousands of plants. She has gone beyond merely providing saplings—she personally ensures their proper irrigation, fertilisation, and care, significantly increasing their survival rate. This has not only improved the area’s greenery but also helped raise the groundwater table, addressing local water scarcity issues. She strongly believes that healthy plants require timely attention and nourishment, ensuring they grow strong and survive for decades.
An Inspiration for Women
Putul Devi’s story is more than just about planting trees—it’s about empowering women. Through her work with Jeevika, she has trained many local women in plantation techniques and nursery management. Today, dozens of women work alongside her, earning an income while contributing to environmental protection. Her success has shown them that dedication and community effort can lead to both economic independence and ecological benefits.
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A Village Celebrates
The news of her national recognition has brought a festive spirit to Murarpatti. Villagers see her award as a collective honour, a symbol of their unity and hard work. Her family members are overjoyed, eagerly waiting for 15 August, when they will watch their own Bihar ki Beti stand proudly in the nation’s highest ceremonial hall.
Looking Ahead
For the future, Putul Devi has an ambitious vision—she wants to plant so many trees in her region that the problems of extreme heat and water scarcity will be drastically reduced. She believes that planting trees is the greatest gift we can give to the next generation, ensuring a healthier, greener planet.
A Proud Moment for Siwan
Her recognition is a matter of great pride for Raghunathpur block and the entire Siwan district. From a small village to the grand halls of Rashtrapati Bhavan, Putul Devi’s journey is a testament to what dedication, hard work, and love for nature can achieve. On Independence Day 2025, when she steps forward to receive the honour, she will carry with her not just a medal, but the hopes, pride, and spirit of her village—and the fragrance of Bihar’s soil will spread all the way to Delhi.
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