The Assam government has successfully completed a major operation to protect its natural resources. Recently, authorities cleared more than 1,700 acres of land during a massive Assam forest encroachment drive. This mission took place in the Jamuna-Moudanga Reserve Forest located in the Hojai district. Specifically, the government reclaimed approximately 5,250 bighas of land that had been occupied illegally for decades.
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Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the successful completion of the drive on social media. He described the operation as a “peaceful, lawful, and decisive action.” This latest move is part of a broader state-wide campaign to restore protected forest areas and maintain the ecological balance of the region.
Details of the Jamuna-Moudanga Assam Forest Encroachment Drive
The operation in Hojai was meticulously planned by the district administration and the forest department. According to official records, the Jamuna-Moudanga Reserve Forest spans more than 8,000 bighas. However, over 1,500 families had settled on nearly 70% of this land. Some individuals claimed they had lived there for over 30 years. Consequently, the Assam forest encroachment drive was necessary to enforce the Indian Forest Act, 1927.
The eviction began on January 1, 2026, and concluded by the weekend. Most families cooperated with the authorities and dismantled their structures voluntarily. However, security forces, including the CRPF and state police, were present to ensure order. While 152 cases remain under legal review at the Gauhati High Court, the rest of the encroached area was cleared without any major incidents.
CM’s Stern Warning Against Future Encroachment
Following the operation, the Chief Minister issued a sharp warning to those who occupy government land. He posted a firm message stating, “GAME OVER for illegal encroachment.” He further added that “no cheat codes are needed” for such decisive government actions. This warning highlights the administration’s zero-tolerance policy toward the destruction of forest resources.
The Assam forest encroachment drive aims to send a clear signal to land brokers and illegal settlers. Sarma emphasized that protected forests are not for human habitation or commercial farming. He urged citizens to respect the state’s boundaries and avoid settling in ecologically sensitive zones. This stance has been a cornerstone of his government’s policy since 2021.
Environmental Restoration and Long-Term Goals
Reclaiming this land is just the first step for the forest department. Over the years, the settlers had converted the forest into betel nut farms and fishponds. This led to significant environmental degradation. Now that the Assam forest encroachment drive is complete, the government plans to launch a massive plantation campaign.
The goal is to restore the original green cover of the Jamuna-Moudanga area. Forest officials noted that the removal of illegal structures will help revive local wildlife habitats. By clearing nearly 47,850 acres of land across the state so far, the government is making a significant impact on conservation. These efforts ensure that the state’s “green lungs” are preserved for future generations.
Challenges and Humanitarian Concerns
While the government focuses on conservation, the Assam forest encroachment drive has also faced criticism. Various political organizations have raised concerns about the displacement of families. Many of the affected people belong to minority communities who claim they have nowhere else to go. Opposition leaders have demanded proper rehabilitation for those who were not “professional” encroachers but landless citizens.
In response, the district administration noted that 80% of the encroachers actually own land elsewhere. They allegedly moved into the forest primarily for extra cultivation. However, the government has promised to handle genuine landless cases according to existing state policies. Balancing law enforcement with humanitarian needs remains a complex challenge for the administration.
| Operation Detail | Information |
| Location | Jamuna-Moudanga RF, Hojai |
| Total Land Reclaimed | 1,732.5 Acres (5,250 Bighas) |
| Families Affected | Approximately 1,098 |
| Date of Completion | January 4, 2026 |
Conclusion: A Resolute Stand for Conservation
The successful reclamation of 1,700 acres in Hojai is a milestone for the state. The Assam forest encroachment drive demonstrates the government’s resolve to uphold the rule of law. By clearing long-term settlements, the state is reclaiming its vital natural heritage.
As the government continues its mission, the focus will likely shift to other sensitive zones like the Lumding Reserve Forest. The Chief Minister’s warning serves as a reminder that forest protection is a non-negotiable priority. With a clear roadmap for 2026, the state is moving steadily toward its goal of an encroachment-free Assam.
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