Tawang , a high-altitude town and district headquarters in northwestern Arunachal Pradesh located at around 3,500 metres (10,000 feet) in the Eastern Himalayas. It lies near the borders of Tibet to the north and Bhutan to the southwest.
In a significant step towards environmental conservation and sustainable development, the Indian Army, in collaboration with the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, organised a large-scale afforestation drive in Tawang on the occasion of World Environment Day. Conducted under the theme “Sajhedari Se Sanrakshan”, the initiative underscored the collective commitment of all stakeholders towards safeguarding the ecologically fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
Recognising the environmental sensitivity of the Eastern Himalayas and the need for sustained conservation efforts, the drive aimed to promote awareness on environmental stewardship, biodiversity conservation and sustainable practices. As part of the initiative, over 10,000 saplings were planted at selected locations across Tawang to enhance green cover and contribute towards long-term ecological resilience.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from personnel of the Indian Army, Central Armed Police Forces including the SSB and ITBP, revered monks, environmentalists, NCC cadets, non-governmental organisations such as YUVA and Being Monpa, as well as members of the local community. The initiative emerged as a powerful symbol of collective responsibility towards environmental protection and climate resilience.
To further encourage environmental awareness among the younger generation, a canvas painting competition was organised for students. Participants displayed exceptional creativity and enthusiasm, depicting themes centred on afforestation, ecological harmony and conservation of nature.
The initiative reaffirmed the Indian Army’s enduring commitment towards environmental sustainability, community engagement and preservation of the rich natural heritage of Tawang for future generations.
