Assam Sees Significant Drop in Environmental Offences in 2023

In 2023, Assam has seen a significant decline in environmental offences, with only 55 cases reported compared to 77 in 2022. This contrasts sharply with a national increase of over 30% in such incidents. Experts attribute this positive trend to improved law enforcement, increased public awareness, and proactive measures by local authorities. Notably, rhino poaching has decreased significantly, and community involvement in conservation activities has risen. This article explores the implications of these changes and the ongoing efforts to protect Assam's rich biodiversity.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 28, 2025, 13:06 IST

Decline in Environmental Offences in Assam

Guwahati, Dec 28: Despite a national rise in environmental offences, Assam has experienced a notable decrease in such incidents.

According to the latest statistics from the Central government, the state recorded only 55 environmental offences in 2023.

Out of these, 26 cases fell under 'The Forest Act & The Forest Conservation Act, 1927', while 18 were related to 'The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972', and 11 were reported under 'The Cigarette and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003'.

This represents a 28.6% decline from 2022, when Assam reported 77 environmental offences.

In contrast, the total number of such incidents across India surged by 30.38% year-on-year, reaching 68,994 in 2023, up from 52,920 in 2022.

When compared to other states and Union Territories, Assam's figures are relatively low.

Tamil Nadu led the country with 41,304 environmental offences, followed by Kerala with 8,786 and Rajasthan with 7,794 cases.

Other states in the top five included Maharashtra with 4,854 cases and Uttar Pradesh with 1,804.

The northeastern states also reported minimal offences in 2023, with Meghalaya recording 16 cases, Tripura five, Mizoram three, and one each in Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur, while Nagaland reported none.

In Assam, 75 individuals were arrested for alleged involvement in environmental offences, with 55 being chargesheeted.

Nationally, 62,831 individuals faced arrest for similar allegations.

Dr. Bibhab Kumar Talukdar, Secretary General and CEO of the biodiversity conservation NGO Aaranyak, described the data as encouraging.

He noted, “For instance, rhino poaching incidents have significantly decreased in Assam. Additionally, there has been progress in conservation efforts within national parks and reserved forests.”

Dr. Talukdar emphasized the increased proactivity of police and enforcement agencies, stating that they now play a more active role in addressing environmental crimes, which was previously seen as solely the responsibility of the Forest department.

He added, “The collaboration among enforcement agencies has improved, and monitoring from higher authorities has also enhanced, prompting agencies to take their responsibilities more seriously.”

Furthermore, he highlighted a rise in public awareness regarding environmental and wildlife issues.

“More citizens are participating in activities like tree plantation drives. The diversification of livelihoods for those living near national parks may also contribute to the reduction of illegal tree felling. Overall, this is a positive trend resulting from collective efforts by all stakeholders,” he stated.

Dr. Talukdar concluded that environmental protection and wildlife conservation laws have been enforced more rigorously in Assam in recent years.