Pankaj Nath, Assam, June 22:
Assam Forest Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah on Monday said honesty, transparency and efficiency will now be the core principles of the state’s forest department. He said this while chairing a review meeting of all Territorial Forest Divisions held at Assam Administrative Staff College, Khanapara. The Minister recognized the achievements of the Department in which the Department’s active role in the protection of forest land and removal of forest encroachment drives of the Government was prominent. He praised the officers and frontline personnel and called upon them to continue to protect the natural resources of Assam with similar professionalism. Expressing a strong stance against corruption, Jayanta Malla Barua said that any kind of corrupt behavior related to transfers and postings will not be tolerated. He warned officials, employees and intermediaries engaged in misappropriation not to demand or accept money in the name of political leaders or senior officials; Strict action will be taken against those found involved in this. The day-long meeting saw extensive discussions on revenue augmentation measures, identification of systemic challenges, plugging leakages and improving coordination between departments. The Minister said that the Department has to unleash the full potential of Assam’s forest resources by adopting a result-oriented approach, while at the same time upholding its responsibilities of conservation and environmental protection. Jayanta Malla Barua also mentioned that through efficient management, better transparency and strict enforcement, the department can significantly increase revenue. This additional income can be used to support the state’s development priorities, such as establishing new medical colleges. The meeting discussed the formulation of a joint strategy for revenue growth of the government through mutual coordination with the taxation and transport departments. In conclusion, the Minister asked all the officers and employees to follow honesty and service discipline, accept transfers, not hesitate to report corruption and maintain the reputation of the Forest Department through honesty, efficiency and public service.
