Assam Enlists 10 Lakh Students for Massive Tree Planting Drive

Guwahati: Assam is gearing up for a massive green push. The Forest Department plans to plant one crore saplings across the state by August 14. Ten lakh students from Class IX and above will handle the work. Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah announced the plan at a Van Mahotsav event in Morigaon. "We want to involve our students in this mega plantation drive," the minister said.

Students must provide a Job Card number from the VB-G RAM-G Scheme to sign up. The department will change its schedule next year. Future campaigns will kick off in April with a focus on native fruit trees. The state also aims to test aerial seeding in riverine Char-Chapori regions. Success there could lead to a wider rollout.

The minister also touched on state policy beyond the forest. He promised a people-friendly budget as he prepares for the upcoming legislative session. Officials will press on with evictions to clear illegal land use. Mallabaruah linked these efforts to protecting the interests of indigenous people against encroachers.