On World Environment Day, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announces new measures to empower forest personnel in protecting wildlife
In observance of World Environment Day, June 5, 2025, the government of Assam has made a major move in ensuring wildlife protection by arming the Forest Protection Force (FPF) with weapons and ammunition. This was announced by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma during a function at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra in Guwahati.
The Chief Minister stressed that this action is meant to equip forest officials to independently and effectively combat poaching and wildlife offenses. Through the supply of the FPF with essential weapons and vehicles, the government aims to increase the strength of forest guards in protecting Assam’s bountiful biodiversity.
The forests of Assam are the habitats of some endangered species such as the one-horned rhinoceros, which makes them easy targets for poachers. The deployment of armed forest staff is likely to serve as a deterrent to illicit operations and provide greater protection for wildlife habitats.
This project is in line with the state’s general dedication to environmental protection and illustrates the active policy of the government in managing ecological issues. Assam is attempting to make history by empowering the forest force and encouraging other states to give wildlife conservation higher priority.
Conclusion
The Assam government’s move to arm and supply the Forest Protection Force is a turning point in the conservation history of the state. With the development of forest personnel, the program has the potential to go a long way in curbing poaching cases and safeguarding the state’s wildlife diversity.