Assam Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah visited the Tharkonalbari and Rakhyasini Pahar Proposed Reserve Forests in Goalpara district on July 20, 2026. This visit aimed to evaluate reports regarding encroachments on forest land and to review strategies for enhancing forest preservation efforts. The inspections are part of ongoing initiatives to transform Proposed Reserve Forest areas into formally designated Reserve Forests.

During the visit, Mallabaruah was accompanied by senior officials from the Forest Department and local MLAs. Together, they carried out an on-site assessment of the regions reportedly affected by encroachment and engaged with residents to gain insight into the current situation affecting these areas.

The team analysed the extent of the encroachment and discussed various protective measures to ensure the long-term conservation of the forest. Mallabaruah stressed the importance of these evaluations, referencing reports that indicated significant portions of the forest land had been unlawfully occupied.

Indigenous Rights and Forest Conservation

The Minister reaffirmed the commitment to safeguarding the legitimate rights of indigenous communities, stating that their traditional rights would remain protected. He clarified that while the rights of local residents would be respected, encroachments by outsiders would not be tolerated. The protection of forest areas, he noted, is a priority for the state government.

Mallabaruah also pointed out the increasing incidents of human-elephant conflict in Goalpara, identifying forest habitat conservation as a vital aspect of addressing this growing issue. He indicated that efforts to preserve existing forests, enhance forest cover, and support plantation activities are critical in mitigating conflict between humans and elephants in the region.

The Minister’s observations during the visit and the feedback received from local residents will be thoroughly assessed by the Forest Department. He indicated that informed decisions would be made based on these findings to implement necessary protective and conservation measures effectively.

Future Actions for Forest Management

In light of the findings from the inspections, the Assam government is expected to formulate specific strategies aimed at protecting the forest regions more effectively. Mallabaruah has promised that the state will undertake requisite measures based on a comprehensive evaluation of the situation, ensuring that both environmental conservation and community rights are balanced.

The ongoing discussions around forest management underscore the significant interplay between environmental governance and local community rights in Assam. The government’s proactive approach in engaging with local populations aims to foster cooperation in preserving the region’s natural resources.

As the state moves forward, both the conservation of wildlife and the protection of indigenous rights will play crucial roles in shaping the policies related to forest management. The focus remains firmly on reducing human-animal conflicts while implementing sustainable practices that benefit both locals and the environment.

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