The Chipko movement. In the 1970s, an organized resistance to the destruction of forests spread throughout India and came to be known as the Chipko movement. The name of the movement comes from the word 'embrace', as the villagers hugged the trees, and prevented the contractors' from felling them.

The Chipko Movement
The Chipko Movement took place in India in the 1970s. It was a non-violent environmental movement aimed at protecting trees and forests from being cut down. The movement was predominantly led by women in the Himalayan region.

Reasons for the Chipko Movement
- Deforestation: The main reason for the Chipko Movement was the rampant deforestation taking place in the Himalayan region. The cutting down of trees was leading to landslides, soil erosion, and loss of biodiversity.
- Economic exploitation: The local communities relied on forests for their livelihoods, including firewood, fodder, and medicinal plants. The government and commercial logging companies were exploiting these resources for profit, leading to further impoverishment of the local people.
- Environmental degradation: The loss of forests was also impacting the environment on a larger scale, affecting water sources, climate regulation, and overall ecological balance.

Impact of the Chipko Movement
- The Chipko Movement brought international attention to the issue of deforestation and environmental degradation.
- It led to the formulation of policies and laws for forest conservation and community involvement in forest management.
- The movement inspired similar grassroots movements around the world, promoting the idea of community-based conservation efforts.
In conclusion, the Chipko Movement was a significant environmental movement that highlighted the importance of sustainable resource management and community involvement in protecting forests and natural resources.