On the occasion of World Environment Day 2026, a significant environmental conservation initiative was commemorated at Shagunpara Chapori, Dergaon, Golaghat district, Assam, where the 40-hectare man-made forest developed through community participation was officially named “Shagunpara Zubin Forest” in honour of renowned Assamese singer Jubin Garg.
The forest, situated on the banks of the Brahmaputra and nurtured over many years under the leadership of noted environmentalist Shri Jogen Paow, stands as a remarkable example of community-driven ecological restoration. Spread across nearly 40 hectares, the forest comprises more than 1.5 lakh saplings of valuable indigenous species, including Sal, Segun (Teak), and other native trees, contributing significantly to biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability in the region.
The afforestation initiative was undertaken with financial support from Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) and technical assistance from the Golaghat District Social Afforestation Department. The forest was formally inaugurated by Shri Rupam Baruah, Forest Officer, Social Afforestation Division, Golaghat, through a ceremonial lamp-lighting programme.
An awareness meeting jointly organized by the Handicrafts Development Institute and Gramshree Sangha marked the occasion. During the programme, environmental activist Shri Jogen Paow was honoured with the prestigious “Jubin Garg Nature Conservation Award” in recognition of his unwavering commitment and exceptional contribution towards forest creation and environmental conservation. The award was presented by nationally acclaimed environmental journalist Shri Jitu Kalita.
The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including Shri Pankaj Kumar Sharma, Secretary General of the Handicrafts Development Institute; Shri Chinmoy Bora, Coordinator of Shagunpara Forest; Shri Shubhangkar Ghosh, Deputy Mayor of Dergaon Municipality; Shri Dipak Bora, social worker; and other eminent personalities from the region.
Speakers at the event highlighted that, at a time when many large-scale plantation drives struggle to achieve long-term success, the Shagunpara Forest stands as a rare and inspiring example of sustained environmental stewardship achieved through collective community participation. The forest has played a vital role in preserving local biodiversity, improving ecological balance, and enhancing environmental awareness among the people.
As part of the World Environment Day celebrations, a tree plantation programme was also conducted at Kumliya Chapori Tribal Primary School in the presence of Headmaster Shri Kaminath Pend and Assistant Teacher Smt. Anitarani Das, further reinforcing the message of environmental responsibility among the younger generation.
The celebration served as a powerful reminder of the importance of collective action in protecting nature and promoting sustainable development. Through the dedication of “Shagunpara Zubin Forest”, tribute was paid to Assam’s beloved cultural icon Jubin Garg, while simultaneously strengthening the commitment towards environmental conservation and a greener future.
🌿 “Nature for Climate, Climate for Our Future” 🌿
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