KOKRAJHAR: In conjunction with global observances, the World Environment Day was commemorated at various locations by the Department of Forest, NGOs, and educational institutions in Kokrajhar district on Thursday. The Department of Forest, BTC marked the occasion at Digli within Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park. Saplings were planted by BTC chief Pramod Boro, Minister UG Brahma, MP Joyanta Basumatary, Forest EM Ranjit Basumatary, EM Dhananjay Basumatary, and MLA Lawrence Islary.
Addressing a large audience at Digli in Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park, Boro stated that the Government of BTR had pledged to restore all degraded reserve forests to promote a greener and healthier Bodoland. He remarked, “We have devastated a significant portion of the forests globally. The degradation of the environment leads to an abnormal increase in temperature, glacier melting, erratic rainfall, and climate change.” He further noted that vital forests within BTC had also been ravaged and resources depleted. He mentioned that the Government of BTR initiated the creation of Raimana National Park, spanning over 500 square kilometers, and Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park, covering 316 square kilometers, to safeguard the green forests and biodiversity, thereby maintaining ecological balance.
He pointed out that many affluent individuals from Kokrajhar town had acquired land within forests in Ultapani and Saralpara, prompting people to destroy forests. He urged everyone to safeguard the reserve forests and wildlife and to plant more trees to combat global warming. Boro also indicated that the influx of tourists was rising in Manas National Park, Raimana National Park, and Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park in Bodoland, providing livelihood opportunities for local residents. Additionally, he mentioned that Rs 11 crore had been allocated for the development of Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park, which would be enhanced in all aspects. The BTC chief concluded, “On the occasion of World Environment Day, I planted trees alongside Cabinet Minister Urkhao Gwra Brahma, BTCLA Speaker Katiram Boro, my fellow EMs, and our dedicated young Green Warriors. 1200 saplings were planted.
Forest EM of BTC, Ranjit Basumatary, announced that more than 14,000 families from the villages neighboring Raimana National Park will receive land titles in the near future.
During the event, forest enthusiast Jahar Bhoumik, recognized for planting over 10,000 trees, was honored by Minister UG Brahma. Previously, BTC chief Pramod Boro planted a sapling on the grounds of Kokrajhar Medical College. Minister UG Brahma and MLA Lawrence Islary also participated in tree planting alongside staff and medical students. Additionally, Boro took part in the plantation initiative at the BTC Secretariat complex.
