The Catholic community and environmental groups across India are mourning the death of Jesuit priest Fr. Robert Athickal, the founder of Tarumitra, a student movement that inspired thousands of young people to care for nature and work for environmental justice. His life was dedicated to protecting the environment and encouraging young people to become responsible stewards of creation.
Fr. Athickal founded Tarumitra in Bihar with the vision of bringing students together to protect forests, rivers, wildlife, and the environment. What began as a small initiative gradually grew into one of India’s best-known student environmental movements. Schools and colleges from different parts of the country joined the programme, with students participating in tree planting, waste management, biodiversity conservation, and environmental awareness campaigns.
He believed that caring for nature was both a social responsibility and a spiritual mission. Through workshops, eco-camps, and educational programmes, he encouraged young people to understand the connection between environmental protection and human dignity. Many former students credit Tarumitra for shaping their commitment to sustainable living and community service.
Church leaders and environmental activists have paid tribute to Fr. Athickal, describing him as a visionary who inspired generations of students. They said his work demonstrated that protecting the environment requires education, cooperation, and compassion.
Although he is no longer with us, the mission he began continues through thousands of students, teachers, and volunteers across India. Tarumitra remains active in promoting ecological awareness and sustainable practices. His legacy serves as a reminder that even small actions can make a lasting difference in protecting God’s creation and building a better future for coming generations.
