In the picturesque Lahaul valley in Himachal Pradesh,India  a movement started by a few women activists in the 1980s is showing people around the world how to protect their territory with dignity.

Starting in the panchayat of Kawaring, there are currently 139 ?mahila mandals? or womens groups that have pledged to guard the forests .

In January, the Thirot panchayat passed a resolution stating that anyone caught cutting trees would be required to pay a fine of Rs.5,000, with the offenders being socially boycotted.

Prior to thins, three panchayats in the Miyar valley decided to use community participation to protect the forests.

The residents do believe that the preservation of the forests can help in the preservation of biodiversity. The damage as a result of hydroelectric projects is evident and hence, the preservation of biodiversity is of paramount importance.

The villagers have taken a pledge to safeguard the local flora and fauna.

Also, though wild animals tend to migrate to lower altitudes as a result of colder climate during winter, the villagers remain alert for poachers. In the summer, they voluntarily guard the nearby forests in batches.

It is so heartening to know that in this rapidly urbanizing world, where destroying nature has become so evident, there are still people who want to preserve nature.

Their efforts must not only be recognized but also encouraged and rewarded so that such actions can be spread in other areas as well.

This will not only aid the villages in the long run, but also the localities around them, hence creating a sustainable future.