Nashik Village Udmal Moves Closer to Becoming Maharashtra’s First Dark Sky Community

What if a village could turn its star-filled skies into a source of scientific discovery, community pride and livelihood? In Maharashtra’s Nashik district, Udmal is working towards making this dream a reality.At the heart of this initiative is 22-year-old Vipul Khiradi, a local student whose fascination with the night sky has grown into a community-wide movement. What began as a personal passion for stargazing soon became a mission to protect Udmal’s naturally dark skies.Khiradi took his vision from door to door, persuading villagers who were initially sceptical that preserving the night sky could bring recognition and new opportunities to their village. His efforts gradually won community support, putting Udmal on the path to becoming Maharashtra’s first Dark Sky Community.Rs 42.14 Lakh Boost for Dark Sky ConservationThe initiative has received administrative approval from Nashik District Collector Ayush Prasad, with Rs 42.14 lakh sanctioned under the Tribal Sub-Plan for 2026–27. According to officials, the funds will support night sky quality assessments, responsible outdoor lighting, awareness campaigns and training for local youth.The Udmal Gram Sabha has also passed a resolution under the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, or PESA, to conserve the night sky and adopt eco-friendly lighting practices. Udmal is now working towards certification from DarkSky International, a US-based nonprofit organisation dedicated to protecting the nighttime environment from light pollution.Where the Milky Way Becomes the AttractionAs artificial lights brighten cities and towns, naturally dark skies are becoming increasingly difficult to find. Udmal’s relatively low levels of light pollution offer an opportunity to experience the night sky in a way that many urban residents rarely can.On clear nights, visitors may be able to spot countless stars and even the Milky Way with the naked eye, making the village a promising destination for astronomy enthusiasts. For students, the initiative could provide opportunities to explore astronomy, learn about space and develop a scientific temper through direct observation of the cosmos.Protecting the Night, Creating New LivelihoodsThe benefits of dark sky conservation extend beyond stargazing. Responsible lighting can help reduce unnecessary electricity consumption, minimise glare and protect the natural nighttime behaviour of wildlife and migrating birds.Astro-tourism could also create new livelihood opportunities for local residents through guided stargazing sessions, visitor services and other community-led tourism activities. According to a report in Mid-Day, Udmal is among 11 locations identified by the Maharashtra government for potential International Dark Sky designation. Other sites include Kaas Plateau, Lonar Lake and Toranmal.The initiative also aligns with the state government's proposed Dark Sky Policy. Collector Ayush Prasad said Nashik district could play a leading role in night sky conservation.If Udmal achieves its goal, the village’s greatest attraction may be something that has always been above it. Thanks to one young student’s vision and the community’s growing support, the stars could soon illuminate a brighter future for this tribal-dominated village.