AR distributes more than 1 lakh saplings to 31 villages
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 25 2018:
As part of its project for generating employment and income through afforestation, 12 Assam Rifles of 26 Sector Assam Rifles distributed 1,10,000 fruit bearing and ornamental saplings to 31 villages of Tengnoupal district today.
The innovative enterprise of Assam Rifles is an outcome of the growing concern for deforestation and loss of natural habitat for millions of local flora and fauna, leading to climate change.
A detailed interaction and awareness was conducted earlier during two meetings with all the concerned village chiefs in the month of April, wherein methods of plantation and precautions to be taken were also explained with the help of Forest and Horticulture Department.
Meanwhile, during the saplings distribution programme at Tengnoupal, Brig A S Chauhan, Commander 26 Sector Assam Rifles, Dr L Jeeceelee distributed the saplings to the villagers in the presence of DFO Tengnoupal and representative of Horticulture Department.
A total of 91 villagers including 31 village chiefs attended the event.
Chief Guest Commander 26 sector Assam Rifles assured everyone that Assam Rifles as "Friends of the North East People" will continue to extend maximum aid" to the people.
The fruit bearing saplings distributed were of Cashew Nut, Litchi, Coconut, Orange, Lemon, Banana, Rubber, Betel Nut, Beetal Leaf and Stinky bean (Yongchak).
A detailed plan of developing cluster based plantation/farm pockets was prepared in consultation with forest officials, based on the favourable climate and terrain conditions.
The villagers applauded the untiring and noble effort of Assam Rifles in addressing the hardships of the local populace and taking up such a noble initiative for the welfare of the people.
The officials along with the villagers took pledge to protect the saplings and grow them.