Write a short note on Chipko Movement.

The Chipko Movement, originating in the early 1970s in the state of Uttarakhand (then part of the state of Uttar Pradesh) in India, was a unique environmental and conservation movement characterized by the act of hugging or embracing trees to prevent their felling. "Chipko" translates to "embrace" or "hug" in Hindi.

The movement was a grassroots effort initiated by local communities, especially women, who were directly impacted by deforestation and the commercial logging activities carried out by outside contractors. Led by environmentalists like Sundarlal Bahuguna and Chandi Prasad Bhatt, the Chipko Movement aimed to protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem, prevent soil erosion, and preserve the livelihoods of the local communities dependent on forests.

The participants in the Chipko Movement used non-violent methods, such as forming human chains around trees and clenching their hands together in a symbolic embrace. Their efforts garnered widespread attention, both nationally and internationally, and contributed to a heightened awareness of the ecological consequences of deforestation.

The Chipko Movement played a pivotal role in shaping environmental activism in India, inspiring similar movements globally. Its success led to policy changes, including a 15-year ban on commercial logging in the Himalayan region and a recognition of the rights of local communities over natural resources.