In a world battling climate change and environmental degradation, stories like that of Swami Prem Parivartan offer hope. Popularly known as Peepal Baba, his journey began not in a lab or a policy room, but as a simple act of planting a tree. Born in 1966 in Chandigarh as Azad Jain, he grew up in a family where discipline and service were part of daily life, thanks to his father’s role as a doctor in the Indian Army. Frequent travels across India exposed him to the country’s natural beauty, mountains, rivers, and forests, which quietly shaped his love for nature. At just 11 years old, inspired by his school teacher, he planted his first tree on January 26, 1977, in Pune. What began as a small act soon turned into a lifelong mission.

From a Hobby to a Nationwide Movement

What started as a hobby club named “Give Me Trees” slowly evolved into something far greater. Peepal Baba began gathering friends, classmates, and even strangers to plant trees and nurture them. Years later, this initiative transformed into the Give Me Trees Trust, now one of India’s largest community-driven tree planting movements. Officially registered in 2011, the trust has become a symbol of grassroots environmental action. Today, with over 11,500 volunteers and interns across the country, the movement has reached 202 districts in 18 states, planting more than 20 million trees and still counting.

Why “Peepal Baba”?

Swami Prem Parivartan earned the name “Peepal Baba” because of his deep focus on planting and preserving Peepal trees. Known for their ecological and spiritual significance, Peepal trees play a vital role in maintaining biodiversity. His mission is centered around what he calls the “three Bs": bees, birds, and butterflies. By planting native and fruit-bearing trees, his work supports entire ecosystems rather than just increasing green cover. To date, his team has planted over 1.27 crore Peepal trees, making it one of the largest such efforts in the world.

A Life Dedicated to Nature and Teaching

Despite his massive environmental work, Peepal Baba has remained deeply connected to education. Holding postgraduate degrees in English Literature and Mass Communication, he chose to become a teacher. His daily life reflects balance: teaching students in classrooms and teaching communities about nature outside them. He travels extensively, spreading awareness about tree planting, organic farming, and sustainable living. From promoting composting and waste management to encouraging natural farming techniques, his work goes far beyond planting trees. It is about changing mindsets.

A Well-Deserved Global Recognition

Swami Prem Parivartan was recently honoured with the prestigious Ecological Restoration and Mass Afforestation Award at the Net Green Foundation Earth Awards 2026, recognising his decades-long commitment to environmental conservation. This award celebrates his extraordinary achievement of planting and preserving over 20 million trees across India through the Give Me Trees Trust. More than just a personal milestone, the recognition highlights the power of grassroots movements and community participation in tackling climate change. It stands as a tribute to his unwavering dedication to nurturing nature and inspiring generations to protect the planet.

The impact of his work can be seen across highways, schools, colleges, military stations, riverbanks, and even remote mountains. His team has worked in challenging conditions, including during the  pandemic, continuing their mission while maintaining safety protocols. From planting Banyan, Neem, and Mango trees to creating green belts and urban forests, the initiative has contributed significantly to improving air quality, supporting wildlife, and combating climate change.

Inspiring a Generation

Peepal Baba’s journey is a reminder that one person can make a difference. From a young boy planting trees in Pune to leading a nationwide movement, his story inspires millions. He continues to engage with students, NGOs, and communities, encouraging them to take responsibility for the environment. His message is simple yet powerful: plant trees, protect them, and pass on the responsibility. In a time when the planet needs healing, his work stands as a green beacon of hope. Because sometimes, the greatest revolutions do not start with noise but with the quiet act of planting a tree.