World Environment Day, celebrated every year on June 5th, is a global platform for raising awareness and taking action on pressing environmental issues. This day highlights the importance of protecting our planet and encourages people worldwide to contribute to environmental sustainability. One such inspiring individual dedicated to this cause is Biju Kumar Sarmah, whose relentless efforts to save the environment in Assam have made a significant impact.
The Growing Environmental Crisis
India is currently facing an unprecedented heatwave, with temperatures in Delhi soaring past 52 degrees Celsius. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for environmental conservation. Amidst this crisis, Biju Kumar Sarmah stands out as a beacon of hope, dedicating his life to reversing environmental damage and promoting green initiatives.
Starting a Battle to Save the Environment
In Eastern Assam, many people associate Biju Kumar Sarmah with seeds and plants. This is because, for over a decade, Biju has been gifting saplings and seeds to people in his community to promote environmental conservation. Currently based in Jorhat, Biju’s journey began much earlier when he traveled on his bike, distributing plants and encouraging others to green their surroundings.
Biju’s Mission: Planting for a Greener Future
Biju’s primary goal has always been to save the environment. According to a report by The New Indian Express, Biju was inspired to take action after witnessing the destruction of nature firsthand. He recalls seeing a significant decline in fish populations in his native village, Marijanji in Jorhat, due to environmental degradation. This led him to start planting trees and raising awareness among villagers about the importance of conservation.
Balancing Duty and Passion
In 2002, Biju joined an NGO called New Gram Seva Sangathan, where he traveled across the state, spreading awareness on environmental and health issues. However, in 2014, he had to return home when his father fell ill. Torn between his duty to his family and his passion for the environment, Biju found a way to continue his work. He established his NGO, “Regoni: A Hope,” bringing together like-minded individuals to form a nine-member team focused on expanding their network and reach.
Collaborating with the Government and Schools
Biju’s NGO collaborates with various state government departments, with a special focus on educating children about environmental conservation. Over the past decade, Biju has visited numerous schools in Jorhat, Majuli, Sivasagar, and Kamrup to spread his message. The Forest Department provides him with free saplings, and friends and well-wishers often support his efforts. In recognition of his work, the Assam government honored Biju with the title of Honorary Wildlife Warden.
Becoming ‘Gosyuli’ – The Plant Man of Assam
Biju’s influence is so profound that people in Eastern Assam affectionately call him “Gosyuli,” meaning “plant.” Known for his dedication to nature, he gifts saplings at social events and is often invited to environmental programs. Recently, a college teacher even invited him to a wedding, requesting 100 plants as gifts.
Biju is proud of the nickname “Gosyuli,” saying, “I am happy that plants have given me an identity. Whenever there is an environmental event in our area, I am invited.”
Positive Takeaway
As we celebrate World Environment Day, Biju Kumar Sarmah’s decade-long mission to save the environment serves as an inspiration to all. His tireless efforts in promoting environmental awareness and conservation highlight the importance of individual action in combating climate change. Biju’s story reminds us that every small step towards greening our planet can make a significant difference.
