8 wildlife sanctuaries, 281 reserve forests under encroachment in Assam

Assam's Forest Minister reported that 8 wildlife sanctuaries and 281 reserve forests in the state are currently suffering from illegal encroachment. While the government has reclaimed some land, human-elephant conflicts remain a significant challenge.
Why it matters
The loss of protected forest land threatens biodiversity and exacerbates dangerous human-wildlife interactions.
Eight wildlife sanctuaries and 281 reserve forests are under encroachment in Assam, the State’s Forest and Environment Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah told the 126-member Assembly on Tuesday (July 7, 2026).
The article relies on official government data and legislative statements to report on environmental issues.
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