Assams Chief Minister Praises Women Forest Guards as Forest Durga Protectors

Guwahati, October 16 (Daily Kiran) : Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently commended the contributions of female forest guards stationed at Kaziranga National Park. He referred to these women as the state’s “Forest Durga,” emphasizing their role in safeguarding Assam’s rich wildlife heritage and identity.

On the sixth day of the Sharadiya Navratri festival, Sarma shared his thoughts in a post on X, stating, “On this day, we worship Maa Katyayani, the goddess who defeated Mahishasura. In the groves of Vrindavan, the gopis worshipped her by the banks of the Yamuna. She is a fierce protector of all that is sacred.”

Highlighting the bravery and dedication of the female forest guards, Sarma noted that Assam’s forests are also home to their own “Katyayanis.” He asserted that the courage displayed by these women underscores the essential role women must play in the conservation of the country’s natural heritage.

In his post, Sarma mentioned that in August 2023, the first group of 108 women joined Kaziranga National Park as frontline forest guards, known as “Forest Durgas.” These daughters from farming families received training at the 11th Assam Police Battalion in Dergaon. They patrol the park on foot, by vehicle, and even by boat during floods, protecting iconic species such as the one-horned rhinoceros, elephants, tigers, and wild buffaloes that coexist in the park.

The Chief Minister recalled a visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who met with the female forest guards during his trip to Kaziranga and praised their inspiring courage. Sarma reiterated, “They prove that women should lead the efforts to protect our natural heritage.”

He concluded by stating that when our daughters safeguard our forests, they are, in essence, preserving Assam’s identity. He prayed that Maa Katyayani bless every “Forest Durga” with strength, security, and the courage to thrive in the wilderness.