Rajasthan's Khejri Tree Crisis: Solar Energy Expansion Clashes with Environmental Protection
Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma is facing escalating pressure to implement stringent measures against the widespread cutting of Rajasthan's state tree, the khejri, particularly in the western regions of the state. This environmental dilemma comes as government officials caution that imposing a comprehensive ban could significantly delay both proposed and ongoing infrastructure initiatives, including critical solar parks that form the backbone of Rajasthan's renewable energy strategy.
The Development Versus Conservation Dilemma
Senior administrative officials have revealed that the state government is grappling with the complex challenge of harmonizing environmental preservation with developmental priorities. "A complete prohibition on khejri felling would have substantial implications for major infrastructure and renewable energy projects that are already in advanced planning stages," explained a government official, emphasizing that Rajasthan's ambitious solar energy expansion is intrinsically linked to land availability in western districts.
Government sources have confirmed that over the past five years, approximately 45,000 acres of land have been allocated specifically for solar park development in western Rajasthan. This allocation has resulted in extensive uprooting of khejri trees and other native vegetation, as the land requires clearing and leveling for the installation of solar panels.
Rajasthan's Renewable Energy Ambitions
Rajasthan has emerged as a premier renewable energy hub in India, boasting an installed capacity exceeding 23–33 gigawatts (GW) as of late 2025. Officials highlight that solar projects have attracted substantial domestic and international investment, creating significant economic opportunities.
"Every solar park development involves massive investment from both Indian and overseas corporations," noted a senior official. "These projects generate considerable employment opportunities and support numerous ancillary industries that are currently in development pipelines."
The issue has gained heightened sensitivity following the recent Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit, where participants signed 432 memoranda of understanding (MoUs) in the energy sector, predominantly focused on solar energy. These agreements entail proposed investments surpassing Rs 5 lakh crore.
"Any strong regulatory message at this critical juncture could potentially jeopardize investor confidence, particularly when we anticipate double or even triple investment in the same sector following the summit's success," cautioned another government official.
Growing Public Protest and Political Pressure
Meanwhile, environmental activists have maintained a continuous sit-in protest in Bikaner since February 2, with demonstrations spreading to additional areas across western Rajasthan, keeping the government under constant scrutiny. Two rounds of negotiations led by Cabinet Minister KK Vishnoi, aimed at persuading protesters to suspend their agitation, have failed to produce any breakthrough.
A late-night meeting with protest representatives on Sunday concluded without resolution, according to sources. The Khejri Bachao Andolan Samiti has firmly rejected the chief minister's request to withdraw their agitation and dismissed official assurances as insufficient.
"We will not withdraw our protest until the government releases a comprehensive draft legislation specifically designed to protect Khejri trees," declared Parasram Bishnoi, founder of the movement. He argued that the government should reconsider land allocations in regions with high khejri tree density or areas traditionally known for their proliferation.
Seeking a Middle Path
Sources indicate that the government is actively exploring a "middle path" solution through regulatory safeguards and compensatory environmental measures. However, political negotiations have shown limited progress, with the opposition Congress party extending open support to the agitation and demanding a clear legal framework for khejri tree protection.
This complex situation presents Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma with one of his most significant governance challenges: navigating between Rajasthan's renewable energy ambitions, environmental conservation imperatives, public sentiment, and political pressures in a delicate balancing act with far-reaching consequences for the state's future development trajectory.
