Tezpur: Marking World Environment Day 2026, a large-scale tree plantation and environmental conservation programme was organised at Chotai Hill in the Balipara Reserve Forest of Sonitpur district.
The initiative brought together the District Administration, Forest Department, Balipara Foundation, Eco TA Battalion, Gajraj Corps of the Indian Army, and local community members in a joint effort to promote environmental protection and sustainable development.
As part of the programme, 1,100 saplings of five native plant species were planted to strengthen forest regeneration and improve ecological resilience. The plantation drive is a continuation of a larger afforestation initiative under which more than 13 lakh saplings have already been planted across the Chotai Hill–Balipara Reserve Forest region.
The plantation programme was formally inaugurated by Sonitpur Deputy Commissioner Ananda Kr Das, who planted the first saplings. Representatives of participating organisations and local residents also took part in the drive.
Officials stated that the long-term goal of the initiative is to restore around 8,000 hectares of degraded forest land in the Balipara Reserve Forest. The project aims to improve biodiversity, strengthen wildlife habitats, enhance ecological connectivity and generate socio-economic benefits for communities living near the forest areas.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Commissioner Ananda Kr Das highlighted the importance of collective action and cooperation among government agencies, environmental organisations and local communities in addressing environmental challenges and protecting fragile ecosystems.
The organisers said the programme reflects a shared commitment towards conservation, sustainable development and responsible management of natural resources. They added that the successful implementation of the initiative demonstrates the effectiveness of inter-agency coordination and community participation in achieving environmental goals.
The World Environment Day plantation drive further reinforced efforts to create a greener and more sustainable future for the region.
