Usha Desai is an Indian doctor of medicine and a tree expert.[1][2]
Usha Desai | |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Indian |
| Education | M.R.C.P. |
| Occupation | Doctor (retired) |
| Known for | Environmental advocacy |
Education and medical career
Desai holds a Membership of the Royal College of Physicians of the United Kingdom (M.R.C.P.).[3][4] She worked as a doctor at the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital in Parel, Mumbai.[5]
Environmental advocacy
Desai raises awareness of the environment and particularly of trees by conducting immersive walks.[6][7] She narrates stories related to the origin of trees as well as associated mythological tales in addition to scientific details.[8] Each walk includes visiting and discussing dozens of preselected, carefully researched and often rare varieties of trees and plants.[5] The walks also incorporate discussion of biodiversity.[9]
Desai's mantra for saving trees is simple, as follows below.[1][2]
"The tree walk will help you fall in love with trees. Thus, when you love a tree, you will not cut that tree, and that’s how we will be able to save our trees."
— Dr. Usha Desai
Desai is trained in botany, entomology and biodiversity from Bombay Natural History Society and Conservation Education Centre.[1][10] She has conducted more than hundred tree walks in Maharashtra and Goa.[5][6] Her work has influenced citizen movements for sustainable living.[11][12]