In the cyclone-prone Sundarbans of West Bengal, visually impaired environmentalist Akul Biswas has inspired more than 200 homemakers to restore mangrove forests that act as a natural defence against cyclones, tidal surges and coastal erosion. Through the community-led initiative Jharkhali Sabuj Bahini (JSB), volunteers from 23 villages have been planting and nurturing mangrove saplings since 2005, demonstrating how collective action can help protect vulnerable coastal communities.
Akul’s journey from overcoming personal adversity to leading a grassroots conservation movement has become an inspiring example of how ordinary citizens can contribute to climate resilience. There were no official statements from government authorities regarding the initiative at the time of writing.
From Losing His Sight To Finding A Purpose
Born into a farming family in Jharkhali, in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district, Akul Biswas was the youngest of four siblings. His life changed when he gradually lost his eyesight due to glaucoma, forcing him to discontinue his education. Rather than allowing his visual impairment to define his future, he chose to dedicate himself to protecting the fragile ecosystem of the Sundarbans.
In 2005, he began planting mangrove saplings along the banks of the Bidyadhari River after recognising their importance in shielding coastal villages from storms and erosion. His determination encouraged neighbours to join the effort, eventually leading to the formation of Jharkhali Sabuj Bahini, a community-led group focused on restoring mangrove forests. Over the years, more than 200 homemakers have become active participants, collecting seeds, raising saplings in community nurseries and planting them across vulnerable stretches of coastline.
A Community Movement Rooted In Climate Resilience
Akul’s mission gained renewed urgency after Cyclone Aila struck the Sundarbans in 2009, leaving widespread destruction across the region. The disaster reinforced his belief that restoring mangrove forests was one of the most effective long-term ways to strengthen the region’s natural defences. Today, volunteers from 23 villages continue to work together during the planting season, nurturing mangrove saplings and restoring degraded coastal areas. Mangroves are widely recognised for their ability to reduce the impact of storm surges, stabilise shorelines, prevent erosion and provide habitat for fish, birds and other wildlife. By involving homemakers and local residents in conservation, the initiative has also encouraged greater environmental awareness and community ownership of the region’s natural resources.
Growing Hope For The Sundarbans
Akul Biswas’ work demonstrates that meaningful environmental change can begin with a single individual and grow through collective participation. His leadership has encouraged people to view conservation not only as a way to protect nature but also as a means of safeguarding livelihoods and future generations in one of India’s most climate-vulnerable regions. The initiative reflects the growing importance of community-led conservation in addressing the challenges posed by climate change while preserving the Sundarbans’ unique ecosystem. Although much work remains to restore degraded mangrove forests, the continued participation of local women and volunteers shows how sustained grassroots action can create lasting environmental impact.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Akul Biswas’ journey is a powerful reminder that resilience is measured not by the obstacles people face but by the change they inspire. His story shows that environmental conservation is most effective when local communities become active partners in protecting the ecosystems that sustain them. The participation of more than 200 homemakers also highlights how women are playing a vital role in building climate resilience at the grassroots. As extreme weather events become more frequent, supporting community-led conservation initiatives can strengthen both people and nature. What can communities, institutions and governments do to encourage more citizens to become guardians of the environment in their own neighbourhoods?
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