A grand passing out parade was held for 940 new constables of the Assam Forest Protection Force (FPF) at the Lachit Borphukan Police Academy in Dergaon, Golaghat district. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma was present to celebrate the significant increase in the FPF’s strength, which has risen by 120 per cent.
CM Himanta commended the recruits for their intense training, which encompassed both physical and mental preparation at various locations throughout the State. He underlined the critical role of the FPF in preserving Assam’s vast biodiversity, which spans 26,832 square kilometres of forest, seven national parks, and 17 wildlife sanctuaries.
The CM highlighted the notable inclusion of women among the new constables, enhancing the force’s capability to tackle encroachment and poaching issues. Additionally, he announced plans to expand the force by recruiting 600 more members by February of the coming year.
During his address, the Chief Minister praised the recent improvements in government recruitment transparency. He referred to the incarceration of former Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) officials for corrupt practices as a testament to Assam’s commitment to integrity and transparency in public service.
The ceremony was attended by several high-profile dignitaries, including Environment and Forest Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary, Agriculture Minister Atul Bora, and Director General of Police GP Singh. It also marked the lead-up to the inauguration of the new Lachit Borphukan Police Academy building, set to be completed by October.
