Are Rajasthan's Ancient Orans at Risk from Solar Farms?

The sacred groves known as orans in Rajasthan, particularly in Mokla village near Jaisalmer, are facing a significant threat as the state pushes for solar energy expansion. These groves, dedicated to cultural figures like Dungar Pir Ji, have been vital for local biodiversity and the livelihoods of pastoral communities. As solar projects encroach on these ancient ecosystems, the delicate balance between modern energy needs and the preservation of traditional lands is being tested.

Last updated: 13 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

In recent months, the orans of Rajasthan have become a focal point of contention between local communities and solar energy developers. These ancient sacred groves, which have been preserved for over 800 years, are now being allocated for solar power projects aimed at boosting Rajasthan's energy capacity. Local activists, including Sumer Singh, have raised concerns over the environmental and cultural implications of these developments, arguing that the destruction of these ecosystems threatens both their livelihoods and the rich biodiversity that has thrived in these areas for centuries.

Key takeaways

• Orans are sacred groves vital for biodiversity and local pastoral livelihoods.
• Rajasthan aims to increase solar energy capacity significantly, potentially impacting these ecosystems.
• Protests against solar projects highlight the clash between modern energy demands and heritage conservation.

Timeline: how we got here

The current situation surrounding the orans and solar energy development in Rajasthan has evolved over several years:

• 2005: A Supreme Court committee recommended classifying orans as forests, except for small fragmented areas.
• December 2024: The Supreme Court directed the state to formally recognise orans as forests.
• Last year: Protests erupted against a proposed 600MW solar power plant by Adani Green Energy Limited.
• Present: Ongoing efforts by local communities to protect their sacred groves amid increasing solar energy projects.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Protests have recently intensified around the proposed solar projects, with activists highlighting the immediate threats to the orans. The local community has begun to organise more structured resistance against the encroachment of solar developments, aiming to bring greater attention to their plight.

What was already established

It has been acknowledged for years that orans play an essential role in maintaining local biodiversity and the cultural identity of the communities. This has included ongoing discussions about their classification and protection under environmental laws, which have only recently gained traction with the Supreme Court's involvement.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While the situation is geographically distant, it raises questions about the balance between renewable energy development and environmental conservation. UK consumers may find parallels in their own country where similar tensions exist between land use for energy and protecting natural habitats.

Businesses and jobs

The push for solar energy in Rajasthan is part of a broader trend towards renewable energy, which has implications for job creation in the green sector. However, the loss of traditional pastoral livelihoods due to land being repurposed for solar farms could lead to economic instability for those communities reliant on these practices.

Policy and regulation

The situation illustrates a need for more robust policies that protect sacred sites and biodiversity while allowing for sustainable energy development. The UK may consider how it approaches land use and energy generation in light of these challenges.

Numbers that matter

• 2.5 million trees have been cut down in Rajasthan over the past 14 years for solar energy, highlighting significant environmental impacts.
• Rajasthan currently has 29,546.70 MW of installed solar capacity, with a target of 90,000 MW by 2029-2030.
• Orans have been preserved for over 800 years, indicating their cultural and ecological significance.
• Over 70 bird species can be observed in these groves, showcasing their biodiversity.
• The critically endangered Great Indian Bustard has been sighted in the region, emphasising the ecological importance of these areas.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Oran: A sacred grove in Rajasthan, often dedicated to local deities or cultural figures, which supports biodiversity.
• Khejri: A drought-resistant tree native to the Thar desert, crucial for local ecology.
• Prasad: A religious offering shared among community members after prayers.
• Solar energy capacity: The total amount of energy that can be generated by solar power installations in a given area.
• Great Indian Bustard: A critically endangered bird species native to the Indian subcontinent, often found in arid grassland habitats.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Watch for developments in the protests against solar projects. Community engagement will likely increase as they seek to protect their orans.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Monitor the outcomes of these protests and any legal actions taken regarding the classification of orans as forests. Changes in policy may arise from these community efforts.

Signals to watch

• Local government responses to protests and community demands.
• Reports on environmental assessments of proposed solar sites.
• Trends in biodiversity in areas affected by solar energy developments.

Practical guidance

Do

• Support local conservation efforts and understand the ecological significance of sacred groves.
• Engage with community groups advocating for environmental protection.
• Educate yourself on the balance between renewable energy needs and biodiversity preservation.

Don’t

• Assume that solar energy development is always environmentally friendly without considering local impacts.
• Ignore the cultural significance of sacred sites in the push for renewable energy.
• Overlook the voices of local communities in discussions about land use and sustainability.

Checklist

• Research local orans and their significance in your area.
• Stay informed about upcoming solar projects and their environmental reviews.
• Participate in community events that promote biodiversity and conservation.
• Engage with local policymakers to advocate for sustainable land use practices.
• Consider how energy consumption choices affect local environments.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The ongoing conflict between solar energy development and the preservation of orans highlights significant uncertainties regarding land use policy. The potential for erosion of cultural sites and biodiversity loss cannot be underestimated. Moreover, the rapid pace of solar energy targets may outstrip the capacity for environmental assessments, leading to irreversible damage if not carefully managed. Activists warn that without a balanced approach, the very ecosystems that support both traditional livelihoods and modern energy needs could be irrevocably altered.

Bottom line

The clash between solar energy expansion and the preservation of sacred groves like orans in Rajasthan illustrates the complexities of modern land use. It serves as a critical reminder for both policymakers and communities to seek sustainable solutions that respect cultural heritage while addressing urgent energy needs. Finding a balance is crucial not only for Rajasthan but also for global efforts in renewable energy development.

FAQs

What are orans and why are they important?

Orans are sacred groves in Rajasthan that are vital for local biodiversity and cultural identity. They support wildlife and serve as crucial grazing lands for pastoral communities.

How is solar energy impacting local communities in Rajasthan?

The expansion of solar energy projects is threatening the orans, which are essential for the livelihoods of local herders and the preservation of local ecosystems.

What actions are being taken to protect the orans?

Local activists, including community leaders, are protesting against the allocation of orans for solar projects, advocating for legal recognition and protection of these sacred sites.