Nest Man of India: At 72 He Is Leading a Flight Towards Bird Conservation

Delhi-based Rakesh Khatri is a conservationist and at 72 he has dedicated his life to sparrow conservation. His journey began in 2008 when he installed 20 nests. Over time, increased awareness and collective efforts have transformed his project into a large-scale movement, with over seven lakh nests built as of March 2024.

“Initially, people mocked me, but today, I receive immense support. The adoption rate of my handmade nests by birds is around 80%. Each nest takes me about 45 minutes to craft. During workshops, children create and place nests under my supervision. When birds adopt these nests, they send me pictures, which gives me great satisfaction,” shared Khatri. To date, he has conducted over 5,000 workshops, directly assisting more than 14 lakh individuals in making nests.

Growing up in Chandni Chowk, Khatri was accustomed to seeing birds nesting on rooftops.

However, after his father’s passing, he moved to Ashok Vihar, where high-rise buildings had drastically reduced bird populations.

Feeling restless about this change, he started experimenting with nest-making using coconut shells. “I initially made 40 nests, but 38 remained empty. Then, in the 39th nest, I found two birds with their chicks. That was my ray of hope,” he recalled. This breakthrough encouraged him to persist and improve his techniques, eventually leading to the establishment of the Eco Roots Foundation.

Khatri’s work gained momentum in 2008 when he began crafting nests from bamboo sticks. His first installation attempt in Kondli, near Mayur Vihar, was met with uncertainty. For three days, he saw no activity. On the fourth day, a male sparrow arrived but soon left. Moments later, it returned with a female sparrow. “That was the turning point. Within three days, all 20 nests were adopted by birds,” he said.

Khatri’s remarkable efforts have been recognized both nationally and internationally. His contributions have been featured in Environmental Studies (EVS) textbooks for CBSE and ICSE boards.

Some of his prestigious accolades include National Science Award by the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, Shining World Compassion, Taiwan, Social Leader of the Year Award  by the Social and Business Enterprise Responsible Awards (SABERA), Green Leadership Award (2023) by India CSR Network, Earth Day Network Star (2020) by Earth Day Network – India, Mentioned twice in the Limca Book of Records.

Khatri attributes the decline in sparrow populations to urbanization and changing lifestyles. “People no longer accommodate birds in their surroundings. Modern home structures and packed food have disturbed their natural food chain,” he explained.

He emphasizes the vital role of sparrows in maintaining ecological balance: “Sparrows are natural insect controllers and serve as an environmental barometer. The extinction of any bird species disrupts the ecosystem.”

Khatri urges people to take small yet impactful steps: “Sparrows are like our children. We should protect them. Nature is like a bank—if we keep withdrawing without replenishing, it will be empty. Placing a simple bowl of water outside can make a difference. Educating children about nature’s importance ensures a sustainable future.”

Khatri is not alone in his efforts. In Ghaziabad, a group of students has formed an Environment Club to raise awareness about sparrows and environmental challenges. This club actively works on sanitation, tree plantation, and community awareness programs.

Vishal, a PhD student in history, coordinates the group. “Sawan (a student) started this initiative in Meerut before expanding it to Ghaziabad. We launched our campaign in 2019 from Modinagar with a program called ‘Kaha Gayi Mere Aangan Ki Gauraiya?’”

On World Sparrow Day, the club conducts awareness drives, encouraging people to create bird-friendly spaces and place water bowls outside their homes. To honor those who participate, they confer titles such as ‘Gauraiya Sakhi’ and ‘Gauraiya Mitra.’

In a recent event, the club distributed clay pots for water storage to support birds. “Bird populations are declining. We no longer hear as many chirping birds in the mornings. If one element in the natural cycle disappears, the entire ecosystem suffers. That’s why raising awareness is crucial,” Vishal added.

World Sparrow Day is more than just an observance—it is a call to action. Conservationists like Rakesh Khatri and young environmentalists are working tirelessly to restore the sparrow population. Their efforts remind us that even small actions can make a significant impact on preserving biodiversity and ensuring a balanced environment for future generations.