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Assam’s ‘Hathibandhu’ Initiative Praised by PM Modi In ‘Mann Ki Baat’, CM Sarma Expresses Thanks

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Assam’s ‘Hathibandhu’ project in his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address, recognizing its role in mitigating human-elephant conflict through sustainable practices. CM Himanta Biswa Sarma responded with gratitude, emphasizing the initiative’s impact on local communities and wildlife.

New Delhi :During his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ broadcast on January 19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended Assam’s ‘Hathibandhu’ initiative, a sustainable approach designed to tackle the recurring conflicts between humans and elephants. He praised the project for its innovative efforts in planting Napier grass on 30 hectares of private land across Nagaon and Karbi Anglong districts, helping reduce incidents of crop damage by providing elephants with an alternative food source.Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, in response, expressed his gratitude on his official X handle, thanking PM Modi for spotlighting the initiative on a national platform. He highlighted that the plantation effort has benefited approximately 8,000 people, creating a harmonious balance between human livelihoods and wildlife conservation.“This plantation offers a reliable food source for elephants, significantly curbing crop raids. It has created a win-win scenario for both villagers and elephants,” Sarma noted in his post.PM Modi also reflected on the deep connection between humans and animals, sharing stories of animal loyalty. He mentioned Nagaon as the birthplace of Srimanta Sankardev and a region facing frequent crop destruction due to elephants. He applauded the ‘Hathi Bandhu’ team for their collaborative efforts, turning about 800 bighas of barren land into a productive area filled with Napier grass to sustain elephants.The ‘Hathibandhu’ initiative stands as a testament to how local communities can develop innovative, nature-based solutions to foster coexistence with wildlife while ensuring ecological and economic benefits.

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