Apicco movement associated with nature conservation was led by

The correct answer is Pandu Rao Hegde of Sirsi.

Key Points

• Appiko movement was to protect and conserve flora and fauna of Western Ghats in Sirsi and Shimoga, Karnataka
• It was led by Pandurang Hegde / Pandu Rao Hegde of Sirsi.
• The movement with the active involvement of local community works towards the protection of flora and fauna of Western Ghats, in Shimoga and Sirsi regions of Karnataka.

Additional Information

• It was inspired by the famous Chipko movement in Uttarakhand.
• Hegde decided to start a similar movement in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka.
• He states that the land under forest cover has gradually reduced over a period of time. From 82% in the 1980s, it has now come down to 35%.
• Based on these three principles, Hegde has been working on a silent revolution to conserve distinct varieties of flora and fauna:
  • Ulisu
    • ​Aims to save and protect the resources that cannot be regenerated artificially
  • Belesu
    • Aims to grow trees for the regeneration of the resource
  • Balasu
    • ​Aims to use forest resources rationally.