In a powerful display of environmental commitment and civic leadership, the Assam Rifles observed World Nature Conservation Day by organizing a large-scale community cleanup drive in the picturesque village of Jotsoma, Nagaland. The initiative not only cleared major waste deposits but also restored a key access road that had been blocked due to recent heavy rains.
The drive was led by personnel of Assam Rifles alongside local volunteers, students, and village elders. Over several hours, the team removed debris, plastics, and natural blockages from the area, restoring both the natural charm of the village and the vital road link to nearby towns, which had become nearly impassable after seasonal downpours.
The cleanup was aimed at promoting sustainability, environmental awareness, and community participation, aligning with the theme of World Nature Conservation Day—“Living Sustainably in Harmony with Nature.”
Local residents expressed gratitude for the initiative. “The rains had caused landslides and waste accumulation that disrupted our daily life,” said a village elder. “The presence and efforts of Assam Rifles have not only restored our road but also reminded us of the importance of caring for nature.”
The campaign also served as an opportunity to strengthen civil-military relations, as soldiers and civilians worked shoulder to shoulder toward a common cause. After the cleanup, Assam Rifles personnel conducted an awareness session on waste management and conservation practices, encouraging residents to adopt eco-friendly habits and reduce plastic use.
A senior Assam Rifles officer commented,
“Nature is not just a resource—it’s a responsibility. Through this effort, we hope to ignite community-driven conservation and show that every small action adds up to a sustainable future.”
The event underscores the Assam Rifles’ ongoing commitment to community welfare, beyond their role in ensuring security. Known as the ‘Sentinels of the North East,’ the force continues to be a pillar of support and progress in remote areas, promoting development, education, healthcare, and now—environmental stewardship.
As the world grapples with climate change and environmental degradation, such grassroots actions by the security forces serve as inspiring models of proactive engagement, merging national service with environmental consciousness.
“Clean village, connected roads, conscious minds — Assam Rifles shows the way.”