Appiko

Appiko was a non-violent protest movement in India that took place in 1983 in the state of Karnataka. The movement was centered around the preservation of trees, particularly in the Uttara Kannada district. Appiko, meaning "to hug" in Kannada, was inspired by the Chipko movement in the Himalayan region, which also focused on environmental activism. The protesters, including men, women, and children, would physically embrace trees to prevent loggers from cutting them down. The movement gained significant traction and brought widespread attention to the deforestation issues in the region. Local communities were deeply involved, recognizing the vital role forests played in their livelihoods and the local ecosystem. The Appiko movement highlighted the need for sustainable forest management and the rights of local populations to protect their natural resources. It succeeded in raising public awareness and influencing policy decisions regarding forest conservation in Karnataka. The efforts of the Appiko protesters are remembered as a significant grassroots environmental campaign in India.