Chipko movement means "hug the tree", it is one of the movements in India to conserve biodiversity. It was started by Sunderlal Bahuguna. This movement originated in Reni Village of Garhwal. To stop the contractor from cutting down of trees women of the village clasped to the trunk of the tree. Its benefits were:
(i) Existing forest cover was protected, reducing landslides and soil erosion. It actually protected environment and maintained ecological balance.
(ii) Forest wealth could be utilized for food, fodder, fuel, fertilizers and fibres.