Forest Department, Government of West Bengal

Bengal environmental activist from tribal community honoured with Padma Shri

Dukhu Majhi, an environmental activist from a tribal community in West Bengal’s Purulia district has been recently honoured with Padma Shri for his contribution towards nature conservation. He is popular by the name of ‘Gaach Baba’ to the localites of Sindri, Baghmundi, where he has lived since childhood. He got to know about the importance of trees and their momentous significance in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem at a quite young age. Since then, he made ‘planting trees’ the motto of his life. From time immemorial, Majhi has been planting trees in any barren land that he has come across.

Although many people opposed Majhi’s endeavour when they first came to know about his ‘mad idea’ twelve years back, this national-level honour is enough to clear their doubts. Throughout the years, Majhi increased the number of trees and none of the negative comments could deter his confidence. Majhi marks out new destinations each day and plants saplings, while also taking care of the ones which he has planted earlier. For him, any barren land with a lack of shady trees is perfect for tree plantation. He mostly plants saplings of fruit-bearing trees like mango, guava, tamarind, jamun and also trees that later grow into ‘shade-providing’ ones like peepal, banyan and neem.

His duty does not end with the plantation rather goes on as long as the tree thrives. Dukhu Majhi keeps a close eye on the tree’s growth and nourishment. Primarily, he used bamboo sticks as fences to keep off the cattle from munching on the young saplings. But sadly, villagers often picked those sticks to use as fuel in the households. As a solution, Majhi started collecting burnt logs from funeral pyres to safeguard his plants.

Aged more than 60 years, he has planted trees on 18 kilometers of land by the road in his village, leaving not even places like temples and crematoriums. He was also acclaimed by the Forest Department of West Bengal for his worthy contribution. Dukhu Majhi has lifted the bar of being a good civilian one step higher.
Majhi garnered attention a few years back when FTII alumni Somnath Mondal brought to the limelight the struggle of this lonely man by depicting it in his debut documentary ‘Rukhu Matir Dukhu Majhi’ (Dukhu Majhi – Son of the barren land). The film was applauded with a number of awards including the Best Biographical Film award at the 69th National Film Awards 2023.

Celebrating World Pangolin Day: a spotlight on earth's shy, armoured guardians

Every year on the third Saturday of February, conservationists, animal lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts worldwide come together to celebrate World Pangolin Day. So in 2024, people will be coming together on 17th February to observe the day. This special day serves as a reminder of the urgent need to protect one of the most trafficked and endangered mammals on the planet – the pangolin.

Pangolins are fascinating creatures often called "scaly anteaters" due to their unique appearance. Covered in tough, overlapping scales made of keratin, they belong to the family Manidae.

Despite their distinctive armour, pangolins are toothless gentle creatures, primarily nocturnal and solitary, with a diet consisting mainly of ants and termites. They possess a remarkable ability to roll up into a tight ball when threatened, effectively protecting themselves from predators. Their tongues can extend up to 40 centimeters, enabling them to probe deep into ant nests and termite mounds. They are even termed as ‘ecosystem engineers’ for building burrows that help circulate the soil organic matter and increase soil moisture.

However, their remarkable traits have made them targets for the illegal wildlife trade, driven by the demand for their scales and meat in traditional medicine and cuisine. This illegal trade has pushed pangolins to the brink of extinction, with all eight species currently listed as either endangered or critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). As per reports, over 880 kg of pangolin derivatives and 199 live pangolins have been recovered/rescued only during 2018-2022.

World Pangolin Day aims to raise awareness about the plight of these unique mammals and the urgent need for their protection. These initiatives not only shed light on the threats facing pangolins but also highlight the importance of conservation efforts to safeguard their future. Simple actions such as spreading awareness on social media, reducing demand for pangolin products, and supporting sustainable tourism practices can make a difference in the fight to save pangolins from extinction.

World Pangolin Day serves as a reminder that, while pangolins may be small and elusive, they play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. As natural insectivores, they help control ant and termite populations, which benefits agricultural productivity and biodiversity. By coming together on World Pangolin Day, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting these shy, armoured guardians of the forest. Through collective action and dedication, we can ensure that future generations have the opportunity to marvel at the beauty and wonder of pangolins in the wild.

Red pandas released in Singalila National Park, as a part of 'Back to the Wild' programme

In continuation of the 'Back to the Wild' programme, two female red pandas are soft released in Singalila National Park. They will be released into the wild after they get acclimatized with the environment there.
‘ব্যাক টু দ্য ওয়াইল্ড’ প্রকল্পের অংশ হিসেবে সিঙ্গালিলা জাতীয় উদ্যানে মুক্ত করা হল লাল পান্ডাদের

‘ব্যাক টু দ্য ওয়াইল্ড’ প্রকল্পের অংশ হিসেবে সিঙ্গালিলা জাতীয় উদ্যানে দুটি স্ত্রী লাল পান্ডাকে 'সফ্ট রিলিজ' পদ্ধতিতে মুক্ত করা হল। এখানকার আবহাওয়ায় ধাতস্থ হয়ে গেলে সেগুলিকে স্বাভাবিক পরিবেশে মুক্ত করা হবে।

Ghoshpukur Range recovers forest land from encroachment, thanks to the Forest Department of West Bengal

After long-term sustained efforts by the Forest Department of West Bengal, the skilled forest officials in the Ghoshpukur Range under the Kurseong Division have finally recovered a piece of forest land that was taken under encroachment for a long period. A total of 16.5 Ha (40.75 acres) of land has been successfully recovered in the name of the forest department by the Ghoshpukur Range team. This extensive land was taken under encroachment by the authority of Pahargumiya Tea Garden and other private entities since the 1990s. The Forest Department of West Bengal continued with its operation and finally succeeded in the endeavour recently.
As of now, the tea bushes that were planted in this forest land by the Pahargumiya Tea Garden, have been uprooted by the department. Also, the area has been thoroughly secured using barbed wire fencing by the efficient forest team. The process of planting five rows of boundary is currently on its way. The Department has promised to plant boundaries on the remaining areas too, during the season of monsoon.
Quite expectedly, during the efforts of the forest officials to remove the illegal encroachment, the Pahargumiya Tea Garden authority lodged a police complaint against the forest department personnel. They even approached the Hon’ble High Court, Circuit Bench at Jalpaiguri to stay the eviction operation. However, all their efforts went in vain as the Hon’ble High Court, Circuit Bench, Jalpaiguri had issued an order in favour of the Forest Department of West Bengal. Efforts are on the way, to recover the remaining area under encroachment as well.
Illegal possession of forest lands by private entities is nothing new in the history of the forests of West Bengal. It is the ever-ready and skillful forest officials of the department who have always done their best in order to conserve the forests of the state. Their contribution has helped to remove many such encroachments while returning back forest lands to whom they belong. Their ardent efforts and the brave judgement by the Hon’able court have time and again restored the faith of the local residents and the people of West Bengal in general who seek justice on their part too. The Forest Department of West Bengal does not support any kind of illegal possession or other activities that can harm the vegetation of the state and thus promotes conservation.

1st Singalila Rhododendron & Bird Festival

The very first Singalila Rhododendron & Bird Festival is all set to take place in the Singalila National Park of Darjeeling on 05-08th April, 2024. It will be held covering the entire of Singalila National Park, with the trekkers hut at Garibas chosen as the main staying place for the participants. Any individual aged above 18 years, with ample physical fitness and a keen interest in nature are eligible for participating in the festival. The festival authority will be providing accommodation to a maximum of 15 participants, and the selection will be subject to the decision of a screening committee.

On the inaugural day of the festival, 5th April, 2024, all the participants shall report at Manebhangyang Interpretation Centre for registration, latest by 2.00 pm. They will be provided basic accommodation in the trekkers huts and also in tented houses, on either singe or sharing basis. The organizing committee will also arrange required food and drinking water for the participants at trekkers hut.

The organizing committee even makes provision for pick up and drop facilities. The pickup facilities will be provided to the participants on 5th April from Ghoom in Darjeeling, from where they will be transported to Garibas. Similarly, the drop facilities will be provided from Garibas to Ghoom, Darjeeling on 8th April.
All the registered (selected) participants are requested to carry with them the necessary utility items such as hand book on birds, binoculars, photography equipments, sleeping bag, winter wears, water bottles, torch, and first-aid kit. Carrying a personal sleeping bag is a must because as the temperature of the selected area significantly drops to 2-3C, the nights become immensely chilly. Since the bird festival would be taking place in a site located at high latitude, the participants are advised to arrive at least one day early to Darjeeling, so that they get themselves acclimatized to the height and climate. Any person suddenly relocating from the plains to any high altitude site may experience high altitude sickness and fall sick.

The participation fee amounting to Rs.15,000.00 (Rupees Fifteen Thousand) only per person should be deposited in designated bank account by the selected participants (confirmed via email). Participant desiring cancellation of his/her registration shall have to inform the authority by email to [email protected] from his/her registered email id on or before 5 PM of 31st March 2024.
The willing participants can submit the registration form via provided link or email. The date of the submission of the participation fee will be informed through email.
To register (Online only) – mail us to [email protected]

Contacts –
Email: [email protected]

Mobile: Shri Sameer Gazmer, WBFS, ADFO Darjeeling Wildlife Division, Mobile no: 9641807603 (call/WhatsApp) & Shri Roshan Rai, Range Officer, Singalila South Range.
Mobile no: 9064550925 (call/WhatsApp)

Postal Address: Office of the Divisional Forest Officer, Darjeeling Wildlife Division. Bengal Natural History Museum, Meadow Bank Road, Darjeeling West Bengal, India. Pin-734101

Exposure training on 'Man-Animal Conflict for Tamilnadu Forest officer

The one-week exposure training on 'Man-Animal Conflict in West Bengal' took place starting from 22nd January 2024. Meant for the 35 forest officials from the Tamilnadu Forest department, the training session was organised at the State Forest Training Institute, Hijli, Kharagpur. The training brought to life extensive classroom sessions, harmonized with field visits and brainstorming sessions and discussions.
The introductory session was taken by Sri Subhankar Sengupta, IFS, Chief Conservator of Forests & Director, Alipore Zoological Park. It was followed by the Divisional Forest Officers of Bankura North Division, Medinipur Division, Darjeeling Division, Bankura South Division, Panchet Division, Kharagpur Division, Personnel Management Cell and some other dignitaries throughout the training periods. The participants visited several Human-Elephant conflicting areas and observed mitigating measures at different places in Jhargram, Paschim Midnapore and Bankura District.

মানুষ-বন্যপ্রানীর সংঘর্ষ বিষয়ে অভিজ্ঞতা দানের উদ্দেশ্যে তামিলনাড়ু বন আধিকারীকদের প্রশিক্ষন

পশ্চিমবঙ্গে মানুষ-বন্যপ্রানীর সংঘর্ষ বিষয়ে অভিজ্ঞতা দানের উদ্দেশ্যে এক সপ্তাহের একটি প্রশিক্ষন শিবির আয়োজিত হয় গত ২২শে জানুয়ারি, ২০২৪। তামিলনাড়ু বন বিভাগের ৩৫ জন বন আধিকারিকের জন্য আয়োজিত এই সভাটির স্থান হিসেবে বেছে নেওয়া হয়েছিল খড়্গপুরের হিজলিতে অবস্থিত রাজ্য বন প্রশিক্ষণ কেন্দ্রটিকে। এই শিবিরটি চলাকালীন ক্লাসরুম সেশন, ফিল্ড ভিজিট, ও নানাবিধ আলোচনা শিবিরের আয়োজন করা হয়েছিল।
অনুষ্ঠানের প্রারম্ভিক অংশটিতে বক্তব্য রাখেন শ্রী শুভঙ্কর সেনগুপ্ত, আই এফ এস, মুখ্য বনপাল ও অধিকর্তা , আলিপুর চিড়িয়াখানা। এরপর একে একে প্রশিক্ষণের দায়িত্বে ছিলেন উত্তর বাঁকুড়া বিভাগ, মেদিনীপুর বিভাগ, দার্জিলিং বিভাগ, দক্ষিণ বাঁকুড়া বিভাগ, পাঞ্চেত বিভাগ, খড়গপুর বিভাগ, পার্‌সোনেল ম্যানেজমেন্ট সেল প্রভৃতির বিভাগীয় বন আধিকারিকেরা, এবং অন্যান্য সম্মানীয় ব্যক্তিবর্গ। অংশগ্রহণকারীদের ঝাড়গ্রাম, পশ্চিম মেদিনীপুর ও বাঁকুড়া জেলার সেই সকল এলাকাগুলি পরিদর্শনে নিয়ে যাওয়া হয়, যেখানে সাধারণত মানুষ-প্রানীর সংঘর্ষ বিষয়ক ঘটনাগুলি ঘটে থাকে। এই সংঘর্ষ প্রতিহত করবার জন্য যে ব্যবস্থাগুলি অবলম্বন করা হয়, তা সম্পর্কেও ধারণা প্রদান করা হয় তাদের।

World Wetlands Day 2024: Wetlands and human wellbeing.

The importance of wetlands extends beyond just the designated observance days, such as World Wetlands Day which is observed every year on the 2nd of February, calling for a continuous commitment to their preservation. This year the theme for day is ‘Wetlands and human wellbeing’. The East Kolkata Wetlands, along with the Sundarbans and other notable wetlands, serve as biodiversity hotspots and are vital for the livelihoods and well-being of local communities.

Wetlands, as per the Ramsar Convention, encompass diverse areas such as marshes, fens, peatlands, and water bodies, both natural and artificial. West Bengal is endowed with a rich tapestry of wetlands, ranging from coastal and marine expanses to inland freshwater lakes, rivers, dams, swamps, and even mountainous wetlands. Recognized as crucial conservation zones, including national parks, reserves, Ramsar sites, and bird sanctuaries, these wetlands contribute significantly to the ecological balance.

In West Bengal, two Ramsar Sites hold particular importance: the East Kolkata Wetland, designated in 2002, and the Sundarbans, declared in 2019.

Additionally, other significant wetlands like Ahiron Beel in Murshidabad, Rasik Beel in Coochbehar, and Kulik Bird Sanctuary in Raiganj play crucial roles in supporting biodiversity and important ecological functions.

Wetlands, deemed vital life support systems, extend beyond being just habitats for endangered species. They are integral components of both national and global ecosystems, providing a myriad of benefits. Their high productivity, second only to tropical rainforests, is manifested in functions such as groundwater recharge, shoreline stabilization, and flood storage. These functions are essential for agriculture, tourism, industry, biodiversity conservation, and various social, economic, and cultural activities.

Despite their significance, wetlands face degradation due to inadequate management and a lack of appreciation for their true value. Unsustainable activities, conversion, and resource overexploitation contribute to their decline. In West Bengal, the East Kolkata Wetlands stand out globally for their innovative wastewater treatment system. This system, the largest in the world, incorporates intertidal marshes, salt meadows, and crucial wastewater treatment areas like sewage farms, settling ponds, and oxidation basins. It has not only preserved the city from constructing expensive wastewater treatment plants but also highlighted the diverse uses of wetlands.

In essence, the conservation of West Bengal's wetlands is imperative for safeguarding our environment, saving the lives of organisms belonging to diverse species, and sustaining the myriad benefits they provide. Efforts to enhance management mechanisms and raise awareness about their invaluable contributions are crucial for ensuring the longevity of these natural heritages.

Olive Ridley Turtle – the aquatic marvel of nature

The Olive Ridley turtle, scientifically known as Lepidochelys olivacea, is a fascinating species that captivates both marine enthusiasts and conservationists alike. These remarkable creatures, named for their distinct olive-colored carapace, navigate the world's oceans with a grace that belies their ancient lineage. One of the most striking features of the Olive Ridley turtle is its tendency to engage in mass nesting events, known as arribadas. During these mesmerizing spectacles, thousands of female turtles converge on coastal areas simultaneously to lay their eggs. This synchronized nesting behavior is a marvel of nature, drawing researchers and tourists to witness the incredible sight.

The arribadas typically occur at night, with the moonlit shores transformed into a bustling haven for nesting Olive Ridleys. The female turtles diligently dig nests in the sand, depositing dozens of eggs before returning to the ocean. The communal nesting not only provides a captivating display but also serves as a survival strategy, as the sheer numbers overwhelm potential predators, increasing the chances of successful egg incubation.

Olive Ridley turtles have a wide distribution, inhabiting warm waters of the Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic Oceans. Their diet primarily consists of crustaceans, jellyfish, crabs, shrimps, small fish, and fish eggs, showcasing their role in maintaining a balanced marine ecosystem. These turtles are known for their streamlined bodies and powerful flippers, making them proficient swimmers, and enabling them to undergo long migrations.

However, Olive Ridley turtles face numerous threats, primarily due to human activities. Habitat destruction, pollution, forceful commercial harvesting of adults, and accidental capture in fishing gear pose significant challenges to their survival. Conservation efforts are crucial in mitigating these threats, with initiatives focused on protecting nesting sites, implementing sustainable fishing practices, and raising awareness about the importance of preserving these ancient mariners.

In addition to their ecological significance, Olive Ridley turtles hold cultural importance in various communities. In some regions, the arribadas are celebrated as a symbol of renewal and the cyclical nature of life. Conservationists and local communities work hand in hand to strike a balance between human activities and the preservation of these incredible creatures. The Olive Ridley turtle stands as a testament to the wonders of the natural world. In Bengal, one can spot these turtles in the Sunderbans, mostly in the Lothian islands. As we strive to protect and conserve these ancient mariners, we also commit to preserving the beauty and diversity of our planet for generations to come.

বাগদাবরার শাল জংগল

প্রচার কম, অথচ অন্তরালে থেকেও সবুজের জৌলুস কম নয়। নিঃস্তব্ধ পরিবেশে জংগলের সোঁদা গন্ধ। বিচিত্র সব পাখির ডাক। বাগদাবরা অরণ‍্যের মায়াবী রূপে শাল, সেগুন, মহুয়া, আকাশমণি, পিয়াশাল, কেন্দু, কুসুম, ইউক‍্যালিপটাস, পিয়াল, কাজু, মিনজিরি ও শিশু গাছের এক মহামিলন। কয়েক দশক আগে বাগদাবরা বনাঞ্চল ঘিরে সাধারণ মানুষের যথেষ্ট কৌতূহল ছিল। কিছুটা ভাঁটা পড়েছিল কাঠশিকারী ও সমাজবিরোধীদের আনাগোনায়। কিন্তু এখন অন‍্য চিত্র।

গত বছর বর্ষার গোড়া থেকেই পশ্চিমবঙ্গ সরকারের বনদপ্তর এই অঞ্চলে দফায় দফায় অসংখ্য চারাগাছ রোপণ করেছিল। এখানকার লাল এঁটেল মাটিতে গাছের গোড়ায় শুরু থেকেই প্রচুর জলের প্রয়োজন হয়। কারণ ভৌগোলিক কারণে কাদার পরিমাণ নেই বললেই তলে। জল ধরে রাখার ক্ষমতাও ওই মাটির নেই। ফলে অত‍্যন্ত যত্নের প্রয়োজন হয় শুরু থেকেই। বাগদাবরা বনাঞ্চলে রক্ষণাবেক্ষণ, নতুন চারাগাছের বেড়ে ওঠার নেপথ‍্যে সদা-সতর্ক বনকর্মীদের পরিশ্রম বিফলে যায়নি।

মোট ২৫৭.৫ হেক্টর জমি জুড়ে এই বিশাল অরণ্য সম্ভার। ফরাক্কা ব্লকের শেষ প্রান্তে তিনটি মৌজা চাঁদর, বাগদাবরা ও বাহাদুরপুর। সবচেয়ে কাছের রেলওয়ে স্টেশন হল ঝাড়খণ্ডের কোটালপুকুর। দূরত্ব মাত্র দেড় কিলোমিটার। এই বনাঞ্চল সুরক্ষিত রাখতে বনকর্মীদের সবসময় সজাগ থাকতে হয় অন‍্য কারণে। ঝাড়খণ্ডের সীমানা ঘেঁষে যেহেতু এই অরণ‍্য একসময়ে অবারিত ছিল সমাজবিরোধীদের দৌরাত্ম্য। বিঘ্নিত হচ্ছিল বনাঞ্চলের সুস্থ পরিবেশ। কোনও নিয়মের তোয়াক্কা না করে গভীর অরণ‍্যে ঢুকে বনভোজনের আসর বসানো, লাউডস্পিকার বাজানো, পাখি শিকার
করা, বন‍্য জন্তুদের উত্তক্ত করা যেন একটা নিয়মে দাঁড়িয়ে গিয়েছিল। বর্তমান বন দপ্তরের জেলা আধিকারিক প্রদীপ বাউড়ির কড়া নির্দেশের পরে পরিস্থিতি এখন অনেকটাই অনুকূলে। দায়িত্বপ্রাপ্ত কর্মীদের নিয়মিত পরিদর্শনে পরিস্থিতির আমূল পরিবর্তন ঘটেছে। দিনের প্রায় চব্বিশ ঘণ্টাই এরা সতর্ক ও সজাগ থাকেন। বন বাঁচাতে এঁদের আত্মত্যাগ অন্তরালেই থাকে।

খুশির খবর, আবারও বাগদাবরা বনাঞ্চল ঘুরে দেখতে পর্যটকদের আনাগোনা গত তিন বছর ধরেই বাড়ছে। যা একসময়ে খুবই কমে গিয়েছিল। যেহেতু এখানে সরকারি পর্যটন কেন্দ্র নেই, তাই ফরাক্কা বা বহরমপুর থেকেই পর্যটকরা আসছেন স্থানীয় পরিবহনের ওপর ভরসা করে। টোটো বা অটোর সংখ‍্যাও বেড়েছে গত কয়েক বছরের তুলনায়। তবে বন দপ্তরের সবচেয়ে বড় সাফল্য, একসময়ে অবহেলিত এই বনাঞ্চলে ঝাড়খণ্ড ও বিহারের এক শ্রেণীর সাপ-শিকারীদের বিরুদ্ধে কড়া পদক্ষেপ নেওয়ায়। বিষ সংগ্রহের লোভে চোরাগোপ্তা হামলা চালাতো তারা। দিন-রাতের নজরদারিতে তাদের আর দেখা যায় না এখন।

২০১১ থেকে ২০২৩ সালের সর্বশেষ বনদপ্তরের পরিসংখ্যান অনুযায়ী, বনাঞ্চল বৃদ্ধি এবং তার পরিবেশ ফেরানোর যে সাফল‍্য তুলে ধরা হয়েছে তার মধ‍্যে অবশ‍্যই সংযুক্ত হতে পেরেছে এই বাগদাবরাও। এমনিতেই ২০১১ সাল থেকে ২০২১ সালের এই দীর্ঘ ১০ বছরের পরিক্রমায় পশ্চিমবঙ্গের মোট বন আচ্ছাদনের পরিমাণ ১২,৯৯৫ বর্গ কিলোমিটার থেকে বৃদ্ধি পেয়ে ১৬,৮৩২ বর্গকিলোমিটার হয়েছে। অতি ঘন বন দু বছর আগেও ২০২১ সালে ২৯৮৪ বর্গকিলোমিটার ছিল তা এখনও অবধি বেড়ে দাঁড়িয়েছে ৩০৩৭ বর্গকিলোমিটার। আর এই সময়কালে মোট বৃক্ষ আচ্ছাদন ১৭.২৭ শতাংশ থেকে বেড়ে দাঁড়িয়েছে ২১.৬১ শতাংশ। এই সাফল‍্যের নেপথ‍্যে রয়েছে রাজ‍্য সরকারের উদ‍্যোগে মাটি ও আর্দ্রতা সংরক্ষণের কাজ এবং বিকেন্দ্রীভূত জনতা নার্শারির মাধ্যমে চারা তৈরি ও বিতরণ।

খুবই উল্লেখযোগ্য হল, শীতের শুরুতেই এখানে আসতে শুরু করেছে দূর-দূরান্তের পাখিরাও। এটাও প্রাকৃতিক ভারসাম্যের বড় দৃষ্টান্ত যা বাগদাবরাতে আগে ভাবাও যায় নি।

প্রতিবেদক:বিপ্লবকুমার ঘোষ

ছবি:পিয়ালী দাস

Musk pods and flying squirrel skin seized from accused

On January 18, 2024, Bagdogra Range of Kurseong Division conducted a raid operation at Gate No. 2 area of North Bengal University, Asian Highway 2. There they arrested a person coming from Tadong, Gangtok, East Sikkim, as he was carrying two musk pods and the skin of a giant flying squirrel. The forest officials have also seized a Nissan Terrano vehicle. The accused person was produced before the court of the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate, Siliguri.

অভিযুক্তের কাছ থেকে কস্তুরি মৃগনাভি ও উড়ন্ত কাঠবিড়ালির চামড়া উদ্ধার করল বনদপ্তর

গত ১৮ই জানুয়ারি, ২০২৪, এশিয়ান হাইওয়ে টু-এর নিকটবর্তী নর্থ বেঙ্গল ইউনিভার্সিটি-র গেট নং ২ এলাকায় একটি তল্লাশি অভিযান চালায় কার্শিয়াং ডিভিশনের বাগডোগরা রেঞ্জ। সেখানে বন আধিকারিকদের হাতে আটক হয় এক ব্যক্তি, যে জানায় যে সে পূর্ব সিকিমের গ্যাংটকের তাডং এলাকা থেকে আসছে। ব্যক্তিটির কাছ থেকে পাওয়া যায় দুটি কস্তুরি মৃগনাভি ও একটি বৃহৎ আকারের উড়ন্ত কাঠবিড়ালির চামড়া। এছাড়াও, একটি নিসান টেরানো গাড়িকে আটক করেন বন আধিকারিকেরা। অভিযুক্ত ব্যক্তিটিকে শিলিগুড়ির অ্যাডিশনাল চিফ জুডিশিয়াল ম্যাজিস্ট্রেট-এর আদালতে পেশ করা হয়।

Birds of Bengal – a few of the migratory ones that visit Bengal in the winters

Bengal, with its diverse landscapes ranging from lush forests to fertile plains, is a haven for a rich variety of bird species. Among the avian residents and visitors, migratory birds add a splash of vibrancy to the region, making it a birdwatcher's paradise. Here, we delve into the enchanting world of migratory birds in Bengal, highlighting the fascinating journeys of a few notable species.

Bar-headed Goose - One of the iconic migratory birds that grace the skies of Bengal is the Bar-headed Goose (Anser indicus). These striking birds embark on one of the most awe-inspiring migrations, flying over the mighty Himalayas to reach their wintering grounds in the Indian subcontinent. What makes this journey remarkable is their ability to soar at altitudes exceeding 20,000 feet, navigating mountain passes with ease.

Northern Shoveler - The picturesque landscapes of Bengal also attract the Northern Shoveler during its migratory sojourn. Scientifically known as Anas clypeata, this bird is recognizable by its distinctive spatula-shaped bill. The Northern Shoveler is a dabbling duck that journeys from its breeding grounds in Europe and Asia to the inviting wetlands of Bengal. These ducks are a delightful sight with their colorful plumage and unique feeding behavior, as they rhythmically move their bills from side to side, filtering small aquatic organisms from the water.

Common Greenshank - Another migratory marvel that graces Bengal's water bodies is the Common Greenshank. It has the scientific name Tringa nebularia. These elegant waders, with their slender legs and long bills, travel vast distances from their Arctic breeding grounds to the coastal areas of Bengal. Their distinctive 'tew-tew' calls resonate in wetlands, marshes, and estuaries, creating a symphony that adds to the region's natural beauty. In a recent incident, a few of these birds were spotted in Gajoldoba, West Bengal.
While these migratory birds find refuge in Bengal during specific seasons, it is essential to recognize the importance of preserving their habitats. Wetlands, rivers, and coastal areas serve as crucial stopovers for these avian travelers, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts to ensure the continued presence of these enchanting visitors. As Bengal continues to be a welcoming sanctuary for these migratory birds, the importance of conservation efforts becomes paramount to sustaining the delicate balance of nature and preserving the winged wonders that grace the skies of this vibrant region.

Image courtesy: ebird.org

Observance of 75th Republic Day at Aranya Bhaban, Kolkata and hoisting of National Flag by Sri Niraj Singhal, IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Head of Forest Force.

Parakeets recovered from suspected individuals

A successful raid operation was conducted by the forest officers at Amlasuli Beat under Hoomgarh Range, Rupnarayan Division. During the raid, the forest team managed to catch two individuals red-handed after a brief chase. The persons involved in the illegal sale of parakeets were apprehended quickly. Six parakeets and two mobile phones were seized by the team from the accused. Unfortunately, four of the recovered parakeets did not survive, while two are currently alive. The suspects were promptly produced in the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate, Garhbeta court.

অভিযুক্ত ব্যক্তিদের কাছ থেকে উদ্ধার হল টিয়াপাখি

সম্প্রতি রূপনারায়ণ ডিভিশনের হুমগড় রেঞ্জের অন্তর্গত আমলাসুলি বিট-এর বন আধিকারিকেরা একটি সফল তল্লাশি অভিযান চালান। অভিযান চলাকালীন, তাঁদের হাতে আটক হয় দুই অভিযুক্ত। টিয়াপাখির অবৈধ বাণিজ্যের সঙ্গে যুক্ত থাকবার কারণে ব্যক্তি দুজনকে তৎক্ষণাৎ গ্রেফতার করা হয়। তাদের কাছ থেকে উদ্ধার করা হয় ছয়টি টিয়াপাখি এবং দুটি মোবাইল ফোন। উদ্ধার করা টিয়াপাখিগুলির মধ্যে দুর্ভাগ্যজনকভাবে চারটি পাখি মারা যায়, যদিও বাকি দুটি জীবিত রয়েছে। অভিযুক্তদের গড়বেতার অ্যাডিশনাল চিফ জুডিশিয়াল ম্যাজিস্ট্রেট-এর আদালতে পেশ করা হয়েছে।