Army, forest dept plant 10,000 saplings across upper Assam ahead of World Environment Day

Dibrugarh: As the world prepares to mark World Environment Day on June 5, the Indian Army’s Red Shield Division, under the Spear Corps, joined hands with the forest department and local communities to launch a major afforestation campaign across upper Assam.

Over three days, from June 1 to 3, the initiative saw the planting of 10,000 saplings at multiple locations, reinforcing a shared commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.

The campaign covered Tinkopani and Jagun in Tinsukia district, the Amguri area of the Phillobari Reserve Forest at Rupai, the Dhekiajan Reserve Forest at Digboi, and Patsaku in Charaideo district.

The plantation drives witnessed enthusiastic participation from Indian Army troops, Territorial Army personnel, forest department officials, ex-servicemen, NCC cadets, school students, local organisations, youth groups, civil volunteers and residents.

Cleanliness drives were also conducted alongside the plantation activities.

Highlighting the significance of the initiative, a Red Shield Division official said, “We believe that safeguarding the environment is a collective responsibility. The campaign aimed to enhance the region’s green cover and promote environmental awareness and ecological sustainability. The initiative sought to encourage collective action towards preserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance, while contributing to long-term afforestation efforts in the region.”

Beyond its environmental objectives, the initiative also served as a platform to strengthen cooperation among the Army, the civil administration, the Forest Department and local communities.