In today’s world, when we hear "Bishnoi," many minds leap to Lawrence Bishnoi, a name associated with notoriety. But is this the Bishnoi we should be looking up to? There’s another Bishnoi whose work and values truly honor the legacy of his community: Anil Bishnoi. Anil, a farmer and conservation activist from Rajasthan, has quietly dedicated his life to a cause that’s deeply rooted in the Bishnoi ethos—protecting wildlife and preserving the environment. His extraordinary efforts have saved the lives of thousands of blackbucks and chinkaras, creatures sacred to the Bishnoi community, across his native Hanumangarh and beyond.

An Unlikely Hero

It was a typical winter evening when Anil Bishnoi received an urgent call from his village informer. A blackbuck, sacred to his community, was in danger. Despite the chilling 14°C temperature, Anil jumped into action, driving 30 kilometers down a pitch-dark road to rescue the animal. Tragically, he arrived to find the blackbuck had already been hunted, its remains prepared for a meal. This tragic incident strengthened Anil’s resolve to protect these animals, leading him to pursue justice for the fallen blackbuck. The culprit was convicted under the Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, and Anil’s vigilance sent a powerful message to poachers across the region.

A Tradition of Protection

The Bishnoi community, to which Anil belongs, holds a special reverence for all living beings, especially the blackbuck, considered a reincarnation of their spiritual leader, Guru Bhagwan Jambeshwar. This reverence dates back to the 15th century, when the Bishnoi people famously sacrificed their lives to protect trees and wildlife from destruction. Anil embodies this devotion. He has created sanctuaries of protection, spread across 60 panchayats, where over 10,000 blackbucks and chinkaras now thrive.

Despite death threats and the ever-present risk of physical harm, Anil remains undeterred. "These threats won’t stop me," he says. His early experiences witnessing the senseless deaths of blackbucks due to poaching or accidental road kills solidified his determination.
 

Building a Movement

In his 20s, Anil began his campaign to protect blackbucks and chinkaras by mobilizing villagers to notify him of hunting activity. Though it wasn’t easy for a young man to take on hardened poachers, he persisted. Soon, his efforts gained traction and the support of nearby villages, creating a network of vigilant locals ready to assist in his mission. Over the years, Anil has caught over 300 poachers red-handed, standing as a staunch protector of these vulnerable animals. His selfless work has earned him a reputation for being a “wildlife warrior,” while also drawing commendations from Rajasthan's government and multiple environmental protection awards.

Karan Singh Kajla, Deputy Conservator of Forests in Hanumangarh, praises Anil’s dedication, noting, "Anil ji’s work is commendable. I have not seen another person doing such a selfless job of saving lives in the area."

A Bond Beyond Protection
 

To Anil, these animals are more than just a cause—they are like family. He not only protects them from poachers but also cares for their wellbeing, rescuing injured animals and nursing them back to health. Some of these injuries come from accidents with vehicles, while others are the result of cruel hunting incidents. Anil personally attends to these animals, providing first-aid and care until they are strong enough to return to the wild. In instances where young blackbucks are orphaned, he and his family take them in until they can survive independently.

During Rajasthan’s scorching summers, water scarcity becomes a major concern. In 2017, recognizing the urgency of the issue, Anil raised Rs 2,00,000 from local villagers to construct 66 ponds across the region, providing essential water sources for wildlife. “People were generous enough to give construction materials for free, and even the masons did not charge anything,” Anil recalls.

The Real Bishnoi to Admire

In a world increasingly drawn to sensationalism, the deeds of those who serve quietly often go unnoticed. Anil Bishnoi’s relentless commitment to wildlife conservation and his unwavering courage in the face of adversity make him a true hero of our times. Through his efforts, he exemplifies the values and beliefs of the Bishnoi community. In a time when fame often overshadows virtue, Anil Bishnoi reminds us that the greatest legacies are built not on notoriety, but on compassion, sacrifice, and dedication.