REGIONAL

GUWAHATI : Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi on Sunday attacked the BJP-led state government over rising prices of essential commodities, alleging that it has failed to meet the aspirations of the people. He claimed that the government’s inability to control prices of essential goods and fuel had exposed its “anti-people character”. “Even after the public voted overwhelmingly to bring them to victory, the BJP-led government has failed to meet the hopes and aspirations of the common people,” he told reporters here after a review meeting on the Congress’ poll debacle. He alleged that the state leadership was preoccupied with cabinet-related decisions instead of addressing public concerns. “The CM remains busy trying to appease several disgruntled MLAs, while he has forgotten the suffering inflicted on the public due to price hikes and an uncontrolled market,” he said. Gogoi mentioned that the Congress is reaching out to the people with fresh planning and aims to rebuild a ‘New Congress’ as desired by them. He shared that today’s meeting at Rajiv Bhawan was organised to review the circumstances that led to the Congress’s setback in the Assembly elections, and to discuss how the party will work firmly on behalf of the people in the upcoming by-elections after completing this analysis. “The Congress has dispatched observers to all 126 Assembly constituencies to prepare detailed reports, and discussions are underway with the central leadership,” he said. He added that the party was also strategising for the upcoming by-election in the Nagaon Lok Sabha constituency. A bypoll in Nagaon has been necessitated after former Congress leader Pradyut Bordoloi resigned from the party ahead of the Assembly elections and later joined the BJP. He subsequently won from the Dispur Assembly seat. (Source: PTI)    

GUWAHATI : Assam’s Manas National Park & Tiger Reserve (MNPTR) on Sunday rolled out the state’s first grass nursery to protect the endangered ecosystem as it has lost more than 60 per cent of the park’s grasslands over the past 35 years. The park authorities also released 15 captive-bred pygmy hogs, the world’s smallest and rarest wild pig, into the forest under the Pygmy Hog Conservation Programme (PHCP). “In a major step towards securing the future of Assam’s endangered grassland ecosystems, the state’s first dedicated grass nursery was inaugurated at Bansbari Range of Manas National Park,” MNPTR said in a statement. The nursery has been developed over an area of 7.5 bigha (approximately one hectare) with financial support from the state Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), it added. “The nursery will serve as a long-term seed source for grassland restoration and expansion across Manas and other protected areas of Assam,” MNPTR said. The initiative comes at a crucial time for Manas as recent assessments indicate that the reserve has lost over 60 per cent of its historical grassland cover during the last three and a half decades, it added. “Grasslands that once covered approximately 384 sq km (45 per cent of the landscape) in 1990 have declined to about 155 sq km (18 per cent) today, primarily due to invasive species, woodland encroachment, altered river dynamics and prolonged interruption of habitat management in earlier decades,” MNPTR said. It is estimated that nearly 6 sq km of grassland is lost annually, underscoring the urgent need for restoration interventions, it added. The project marks another important milestone in Manas’ ongoing efforts to restore one of Asia’s most important riverine grassland ecosystems and secure the ecological integrity of the UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site for future generations. In the new project, a total of 16 species of native grasses were collected from different habitats within Manas since November 2025 and raised in specially prepared nursery beds. “The nursery was established in May 2026 and is expected to play a critical role in supporting large-scale ecological restoration efforts,” the authorities said. These alluvial grasslands form the ecological backbone of Manas and support globally threatened wildlife, including the pygmy hog, bengal florican, hispid hare, one-horned rhinoceros, wild water buffalo, swamp deer, Asian elephant and tiger. Speaking on the occasion, Assam Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden Vinay Gupta stated that restoration of grasslands is among the highest conservation priorities for Manas National Park. “The newly established grass nursery will ensure a sustainable supply of native grass species required for habitat restoration, invasive species management and recovery of critical wildlife habitats,” he added. Meanwhile, 15 captive-bred pygmy hogs were released in the same function into the Kuribeel grasslands of Manas National Park under the Pygmy Hog Conservation Programme (PHCP). The pygmy hog or Porcula Salvania is the world’s smallest and rarest wild pig, which has been threatened with extinction. Commenting on the development, Gupta said, “The reintroduction of the endangered pygmy hog in MNP is a remarkable conservation achievement. Such efforts are vital for restoring grassland ecosystems and safeguarding threatened species.” This is the sixth release of pygmy hogs into MNP since 2020, which takes the total number of the endangered species released by the programme up to 78. “This release marks a true homecoming for the pygmy hog. The founder population for the conservation breeding programme was originally captured from the Kuribeel grasslands of the Bansbari Range in Manas, where these animals have now been reintroduced. “With no confirmed signs of pygmy hogs in Kuribeel for the past nine years, this release represents a significant milestone in the recovery of the species and the restoration of its historical range,” the statement said. The PHCP, a collaborative initiative involving the Assam Forest Department, Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, the IUCN SSC Wild Pig Specialist Group and Ecosystems-India, with Aaranyak as a key implementation partner, has been instrumental in rescuing the critically endangered pygmy hog from the brink of extinction after the species was feared extinct during the 1970s. “Over the next five years, the PHCP plans to release around 80 Pygmy Hogs, with the goal of rebuilding a thriving wild population of approximately 300 animals by 2040,” MNPTR said. The PHCP started its work in 1996 when two males and two females were captured. The reintroduction of captive-bred hogs to the wild began in 2008. Prior to releases in Manas National Park, the PHCP selected other appropriate grasslands like Orang National Park in Assam for reintroductions of the pygmy hog. The initiative has so far successfully bred and reintroduced 194 hogs in Assam, and for the first time since the reintroduction programme began, it may now outnumber their current global wild population, MNPTR said. During the day, the Manas Tiger Reserve honoured two veteran camp elephants upon their retirement from active service, while inducting five newly trained elephants into conservation duty. The ceremony featured a ‘Guard of Honour’ to the elephants, felicitation with traditional gamochas, ceremonial feeding with sugarcane and fruits, and a colourful elephant parade. The newly inducted elephants, having completed three months of training under experienced mahouts, will now assist in anti-poaching patrols, wildlife monitoring, habitat management and other conservation activities, MNPTR said. Speaking on the occasion, MNPTR Field Director C Ramesh highlighted that camp elephants remain an integral part of conservation management in Manas, particularly in the vast grassland and forest landscapes where they provide safe and effective access for protection and monitoring activities. (Source: PTI)

GUWAHATI : Rich tributes were paid to Assam’s first chief minister Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi on the occasion of his 136th birth anniversary on Saturday. Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya in a message said that Bardoloi’s “profound patriotism, towering personality and visionary political decisions have enriched and safeguarded the Assamese and the state”. “On the birth anniversary of this great son of Assam, I offer my heartfelt respects,” he added. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, in a post on X, said, “Remembering Bharat Ratna Lokpriya Gopinath Bardoloi on his Jayanti. The architect of modern Assam, his leadership came at a defining moment in our history.” ”Through his courage and vision, he safeguarded Assam’s interests and played a pivotal role in ensuring that Assam remains an integral part of India,” he said. The Guwahati airport, named after the first chief minister, also observed his birth anniversary, with employees asserting that he was a visionary leader whose contributions continue to inspire generations. The team at the terminal also distributed saplings to passengers to mark the occasion. (Source: PTI)  

GANGTOK :  Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Ajay Tamta reviewed a host of road and infrastructure projects in Sikkim and directed officials to expedite ongoing projects and fast-track the upcoming ones. Tamta travelled along NH-10 and NH-510 and inspected development activities in Gyalshing district, where he reviewed projects such as the Ayush Hospital and Krishi Vigyan Kendra, besides assessing the implementation of various central schemes, an official release said here. The minister also took stock of several major highway projects proposed for the state. These include the 15.30-km Rhenock-Rongli road project, which has received in-principle approval at an estimated cost of Rs 595 crore, and the upgradation of a 25.75-km stretch of NH-10 with a projected investment of Rs 1,018 crore. Proposed bypasses and realignment works between Rangpo-Rorathang and Melli-Singtam were also reviewed, with the projects aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving connectivity across key corridors, the release said. Tamta also inspected the progress of the Gangtok Bypass and directed officials to ensure its completion by November 2026. The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has completed six projects covering 58 km at a cost of about Rs 1,323 crore, while seven more projects spanning 147 km and worth Rs 3,749 crore are under implementation, the release said. The ministry’s Road and National Highways Wing has completed 117 km of road projects costing Rs 1,202 crore, with another 50 km under construction and 58 km of new projects in the pipeline. The release further said the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has constructed the 59-km Gangtok-Sherathang-Nathu La stretch of NH-310, a strategic route leading to the India-China border. Tamta directed BRO officials to create additional lay-bys for tourist vehicles and strengthen landslide mitigation measures along vulnerable stretches. The minister stressed the Centre’s commitment to improving Sikkim’s road network, saying better connectivity would boost economic growth, tourism, trade and access to remote areas. (Source: PTI)  

TEZPUR : The two-day Tezpur Litchi Festival 2026 began here on Saturday, showcasing the region’s celebrated GI-tagged fruit and its expanding footprint in international markets. The event has brought together farmers, exporters, scientists, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to explore new opportunities for the fruit that has become synonymous with the town’s agricultural identity. A major highlight of the inaugural day was the announcement of fresh export initiatives by Sonitpur District Commissioner Anand Kumar Das. He said one tonne of Tezpur litchi has been earmarked for export to Dubai, while arrangements have been finalized to send 500 kilograms to Singapore. In a symbolic gesture, 100 specially packaged boxes of premium Tezpur litchis will be dispatched to the Prime Minister’s Office, Das added. The festival is being organised at multiple venues, including the District Library Auditorium, the adjoining library campus, and Anand Chandra Agarwala Park. Proceedings began with a tribute to renowned Assamese litterateur Padmanath Gohain Barua, who had pioneered improved litchi cultivation in the region. The inaugural session drew participation from a wide spectrum of stakeholders, including elected representatives, agricultural experts, exporters, and growers. Entrepreneur Biswajit Saikia showcased innovative litchi-based products, including dehydrated litchi with an extended shelf life of nearly six months. He also shared plans to develop honey and other value-added products linked to litchi cultivation, highlighting the growing scope of agro-processing in the sector. A commemorative publication chronicling the journey of Tezpur litchi—from its historical roots to future market prospects—was released during the programme. The Department of Posts also marked the occasion by unveiling a special postal cover dedicated to the fruit. Exhibitions, documentary screenings, product displays, and sales counters were also organised. A technical seminar on food technology and litchi processing brought together experts and entrepreneurs to discuss value addition, branding, and market expansion strategies. Ten progressive farmers were honoured for their contributions to boosting litchi production and quality. As part of an awareness drive, the Indian Army distributed litchi saplings among NCC cadets, encouraging youth participation in horticulture and environmental conservation. The festival also highlighted the growing commercial potential of Tezpur litchi through innovative products such as litchi chips. Stakeholders claimed that these initiatives will open new avenues for entrepreneurship, increase farmers’ income, and further strengthen the global reputation of Assam’s prized GI-tagged fruit. (Source: PTI)  

GUWAHATI : six types of storks have been recorded during a survey in the Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve (KNTPR), officials said on Saturday. Altogether 271 raptors and 266 storks were found during the survey conducted by the KNTPR and researchers from various universities of Assam in February-March. The study was held across all administrative ranges under the Eastern Assam Wildlife Division, and the report was released on the occasion of World Environment Day on Friday. Most of these species are listed in Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, which provides the highest degree of protection, prohibiting hunting, poaching, and unauthorised commercial trade of the birds. The park is home to a wide variety of diurnal and nocturnal raptors, which include eagles, falcons, vultures, buzzards and owls, while numerous resident and migratory stork species are found in its vast network of wetlands. These include Slender-billed vulture, Red-headed vulture, Pallas’s Fish Eagle, Steppe Eagle, Greater Spotted Eagle, Grey-headed Fish Eagle, Brown Fish Owl, Dusky Eagle-Owl, Greater Adjutant stork, Lesser Adjutant, Black-necked Stork and Black Stork. A total of 112 species of raptors are recorded from India, with Kaziranga National Park and the adjoining landscape harbours about 50 species of raptors. The state’s rich, diverse wetlands and Himalayan foothills provide critical habitats for these birds of prey. The survey of storks and raptors reveals a striking diversity of these birds across three administrative divisions, officials said. Kaziranga National Park reveals the highest number of raptors with 21 species and 5 species of storks, followed by Biswanath Wildlife Division with 20 species of raptors and 6 species of storks. The Nagaon Wildlife Division has 14 species of raptors and 5 species of storks. Among the stork species, Asian Openbill is the most abundant with 92 individual records across all divisions and Greater adjutant stork is the rarest species with only three individual sightings. Among the raptors, Himalayan Griffon vulture is the most common bird of prey with 69 individual sightings, while Booted eagle and the White-tailed eagle are the rarest species with only one individual sighting each. Kaziranga’s landscape also serves as a last stronghold for the enigmatic Pallas’s fish eagle. These findings underline Kaziranga’s importance for conservation and highlight priorities including nest and floodplain habitat protection, mitigation of powerline electrocution, continued telemetry and international collaboration to secure the species’ remaining populations, officials said. Nesting locations from the current year were also included in the overall analysis. The findings will contribute to ongoing efforts to protect these threatened raptor and stork species and enhance the biodiversity of the park’s diverse habitats. (Source: PTI)          

IMPHAL : BJP candidate for the Rajya Sabha elections, Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi, on Friday said she would first focus on the restoration of peace and resettlement of internally displaced people in restive Manipur, if she is elected to the Upper House of Parliament. Sharda Devi’s comment comes a day after the party nominated her for the June 18 Rajya Sabha elections. The party’s state unit chief also urged the legislators to vote for her and allow her to serve the state. Sharda Devi’s election is almost certain as the BJP has 37 MLAs in the 60-member assembly. “I am deeply humbled and grateful to BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party president Nitin Nabin, for giving me the ticket to contest the Rajya Sabha elections from the state,” she said. Sharda Devi, who had served as the national vice president for the party from 2014 to 2016, will file her nomination on June 8. In a post on X, she said, “This nomination is not merely a personal milestone but a solemn responsibility to serve the people of Manipur and contribute towards the vision of a stronger, united, and developed India under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Modi.” She pledged to work “tirelessly for the welfare of the people and the progress of our beloved state and the country”. “If elected to the Rajya Sabha, I will focus on and take all the possible steps to restore peace in the state and look into the development requirements,” Sharda Devi said. The BJP candidate also said she would be “doing everything in her capacity to rehabilitate and resettle all the internally displaced people in the state”. More than 260 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless in ethnic violence between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo groups in Manipur since May 2023. (Source: PTI)    

GUWAHATI : BJP MLAs Ranoj Pegu, Ashok Singhal, Biswajit Daimary and AGP’s Keshab Mahanta were among the 12 legislators who took oath as ministers on Friday as Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expanded his cabinet, taking the strength of the council of ministers to 17. Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya administered the oath of office and secrecy to the MLAs at a function at the Jyoti-Bishnu Antarjatik Kala Mandir here. The chief minister, Union ministers Sarbananda Sonowal and Pabitra Margherita, Assam Assembly Speaker Ranjeet Kumar Dass, BJP state president Dilip Saikia and several NDA MLAs were present on the occasion. Among the new faces in the cabinet are BJP’s Ashwini Ray Sarkar, Nandini Devi and Sushanta Borgohain. AGP’s Mahanta, who was in Himanta Biswa Sarma’s previous cabinet, was included in the new council of ministers. BJP MLAs Bimal Borah, Jayant Mallabaruah, Kaushik Rai, Krishnendu Paul and Pijush Hazarika, who took the oath, had also served as ministers in the previous Himanta Biswa Sarma government. Rai took the oath in Hindi and all others in the Assamese language. The strength of the Assam cabinet will now be 17, including the CM, with four other ministers sworn in on May 12. The optimal strength of the state cabinet is 19 in the 126-member Assam assembly. The ministers sworn in earlier are AGP’s Atul Bora, BPF’s Charan Boro and BJP’s Ajanta Neog and Rameshwar Teli. The new cabinet will have 13 BJP ministers, two from the AGP and one from BPF. Neog and Nilima Devi are the two women ministers in the cabinet, and the number remains the same as in the previous cabinet. The expanded ministry represents several ethnic communities and geographical regions. There are two representatives, Kaushik Rai and Krishnendu Paul, from the Barak Valley, while BPF’s Boro and BJP’s Daimary belong to the Bodo community. Besides, Pegu is from the Mising tribe, Ray Sarkar from the Koch Rajbongshi and Borgohain from the Ahom community. Borgohain, along with Borah, is from upper Assam, Singhal from the northern part of the state, Pijush Hazarika from central Assam and Mallabaruah from lower Assam. Sarma was sworn in as the chief minister along with four ministers on May 12. The NDA won a record 102 seats in the 126-member assembly, including 82 from the BJP. The BJP allies, the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and the Bodoland People’s Front (BPF), bagged 10 seats each. (Source: PTI)