Recently deceased Padma Shri awardee Daripalli Ramaiah

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Daripalli Ramaiah, who passed away recently at age 87 in Telangana's Khammam district, was a noted environmentalist. Locally known as 'Chetla Ramaiah' or Vanajeevi (forest dweller), he was recognized for his dedication to tree planting and conservation. He was known for wearing a green board around his neck with the slogan "Vriksho Rakshati Rakshita" (Save the tree, it will save you) to spread awareness about environmental conservation. For his invaluable contribution to extending tree cover, he was honored with the Padma Shri award in 2017, along with several other recognitions including the Seva Award (1995), Vanamitra Award (2005), and National Innovations and Outstanding Traditional Knowledge Award (2015).