Ekta: The Nature Warrior is a collection of four stories written by Hridaan Jain, a student of the seventh grade at Springdales School, Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi. He has written these stories with a passion to inspire his readers about the impact of their actions on the environment. He had participated in WWF’s MCOP5 event and learnt much about biodiversity and he has brought his understanding of the lessons learnt to create a fictional character Ekta, through whom he delivers his concerns about environmental well-being. Through the eyes of his protagonist, the young Assamese Ekta, we learn about how our mindless actions destroy the intricate balance inherent in nature.
The story dealing with the cutting of forests to build a five-star hotel is very touching. We see how a nature-loving child can also influence a hard-headed businessman. The next story is about the plastic waste strewn everywhere that can be removed by organizing colonies and communities to become active partners in clearing up the mess, instead of waiting for government or waste-clearing agencies to do the job. Even young people can become activists to keep our environment safe. The story in which Ekta learns about biodiversity and the difference between harmful plant species and the good plant species is an interesting lesson in getting to know the plant kingdom. The last story about a tree that prevents other foliage from growing wherever it is planted is, indeed, very educative. The tree is called Prosopis juliflora and I will leave the young readers to find out more about it.
It is, indeed, very encouraging seeing that a young boy who is so passionate about nature has seen fit to share his ideas with other young people. The stories are imaginative and educative and since he loves reading he has chosen the literary medium to share his experiences. Kudos to Hridaan Jain and also his elders who have helped him produce this book.