Tree Plantation in Assam: Nurturing the Green Paradise

Assam, a northeastern state in India, is renowned for its lush green landscapes and rich biodiversity. Tree plantation initiatives in Assam play a vital role in preserving its natural beauty and contributing to environmental conservation. Here, we delve into the significance of tree plantation in Assam, highlight important native trees, discuss government initiatives, and shed light on the major NGOs and corporates involved in this endeavor.

The Significance of Tree Plantation in Assam

1. Biodiversity Conservation: Assam boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it one of the country's biodiversity hotspots. Tree plantation helps protect and restore ecosystems vital for the survival of numerous species.

2. Climate Mitigation: Trees act as carbon sinks, mitigating the effects of climate change. Assam's tree planting efforts contribute to reducing carbon emissions and maintaining a stable climate.

3. Soil and Water Conservation: The state's hilly terrain makes it susceptible to soil erosion and floods. Tree roots stabilize soil, prevent erosion, and improve water retention.

4. Economic Benefits: Many trees in Assam yield valuable products like tea, bamboo, and medicinal herbs. Planting these trees supports local economies.

Some of the important native trees of Assam include:

• Hollong (Dipterocarpus macrocarpus): The tallest tree in Assam and the state tree of Assam. It is a valuable timber tree and also provides habitat for a variety of wildlife.
• Gurjan (Dipterocarpus tubinatus): Another important timber tree, also used for making plywood and furniture.
• Mekai (Shorea assamica): A hardwood tree used for making furniture, boats, and other items.
• Kurta (Palaquium polyanthum): A fruit tree that also produces a valuable timber.
• Nahar (Mesua ferrea): A tree with beautiful white flowers and a fragrant wood.
• Sia-nahar (Keyea assamica): A close relative of nahar, with similar uses.
• Sissoo (Dalbergia sissoo): A fast-growing tree with a strong wood that is used for a variety of purposes, including making furniture, boats, and musical instruments.
• Khair (Acacia catechu): A tree that produces a valuable gum used in tanning and dyeing.

Government Initiatives

The Assam government has launched a number of initiatives to promote tree plantation in the state. These include:

• The Assam Green Mission: This mission aims to plant 200 million trees in Assam by 2025.
• The Assam Plantation Act: This act mandates the planting of trees on all government land.
• The Assam Forest Plantation Corporation: This corporation is responsible for planting and managing forests in Assam.

NGOs and Corporates Working in the Domain

A number of NGOs and corporates are also working in the domain of tree plantation in Assam. Some of these include:

• Wildlife Trust of India: This NGO works on a variety of conservation projects, including tree plantation.
• Assam Biodiversity Network: This network of NGOs works to conserve Assam's biodiversity, including through tree plantation.
• Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC): This public sector company has planted millions of trees in Assam as part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives.
• Tata Tea: This private company has planted millions of trees in Assam as part of its sustainability initiatives.
• Assam Environmental NGO (AEN): AEN is committed to environmental conservation and conducts tree plantation drives across the state
• Assam Foundation: This organization collaborates with communities and schools to plant trees and raise awareness about environmental issues.
• Oil India Limited: As a responsible corporate entity, Oil India Limited engages in afforestation activities in Assam, contributing significantly to the region's greenery.

State Tree of Assam

The Hollong (Dipterocarpus macrocarpus) is the state tree of Assam. It is a tall, majestic tree that can grow up to 50 meters in height. It has a large canopy and produces beautiful white flowers. Hollong wood is highly valued for its durability and strength. It is used to make furniture, boats, and other items.

Tree plantation in Assam is not just an environmental endeavor; it's a commitment to safeguarding the state's unique biodiversity, improving livelihoods, and securing a sustainable future. As residents and organizations in Assam continue to plant trees, they ensure that the 'Land of the Red River' remains green and thriving for generations to come.

The Assam government has taken an initiative aimed to plant over 1 crore commercially viable saplings across the state by individuals under 'Amrit Brikshya Andolan' on September 17 and as part of the exercise, the state government will also attempt to set up 9 Guinness World Records.