Bengaluru, Dec 17 (Representative) The passing of Padma Shri awardee and renowned environmentalist Tulsi Gowda has left the nation in mourning, with tributes pouring in from leaders across India on Tuesday.Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, and State BJ President Vijayendra Yediyurappa all expressed their condolences, hailing her lifelong dedication to environmental conservation. PM Modi praised Gowda for her tireless work in nurturing nature, stating, “She dedicated her life to planting thousands of saplings and conserving our environment. Her work will continue to inspire generations to protect our planet.” He extended his condolences to her family and admirers, adding, “Om Shanti.” CM Siddaramaiah fondly recalled her humble beginnings as a daily wage laborer in the Forest Department. “Even after her retirement, she continued to plant trees, never deviating from her commitment to the environment,” he said. “She was honored with the Padma Shri for her outstanding work.” He also offered his prayers for her eternal peace.
Shivakumar described her as “the Mother of Trees,” reflecting on her deep knowledge of nature despite not being formally educated. “Her life, which included planting and nurturing millions of trees, as well as collecting seeds of many endangered wild plants, silently created a green revolution,” he said. He extended his condolences and prayed for her soul’s peace, adding, “Om Shanti.” Vijayendra also expressed his shock at her passing. “The passing away of Padma Shri awardee and strong voice of the environment, Tulsi Gowda, has truly come as a shock to the minds of environmentalists,” he said. “In recognition of her tireless concern and environmental revolution through the Green Revolution, the central government honored her with the prestigious Padma Shri award last year.” Vijayendra also highlighted her extraordinary contribution to the environment, noting, “She planted and nurtured more than 30,000 trees per year and was involved in tree planting for over 14 years.” Tulsi’s passing marks the end of an era for environmental conservation in Karnataka. Her lifelong dedication to nature will continue to inspire future generations in the fight to preserve and protect the environment.