Udmal in Nashik Aims to Become Maharashtra's First Dark Sky Community

Udmal, a remote tribal-dominated village in Nashik district, is taking major steps toward becoming Maharashtra's first "Dark Sky Community." The initiative focuses on protecting the night sky and preventing light pollution, establishing conditions suitable for astronomy enthusiasts.

The project has been driven by 22-year-old Vipul Khiradi, a local student whose stargazing efforts sparked a wider movement to place the village on the global astro-tourism map.

Khiradi began as a lone observer of the night sky several years ago before expanding his efforts across the locality. He went door to door to engage skeptical residents, convincing them that protecting their pristine skies could generate local pride as well as tourism opportunities.

By curbing artificial light pollution and preserving dark skies, the village aims to develop dedicated facilities and recognition for night-sky observation and astronomy.