Wildlife – Assam Sees Rare Wild Dogs Return to Protected Forest Region
Wildlife – Assam’s long-term efforts to restore forest ecosystems have delivered a major conservation milestone with the return of endangered dholes, also known as Asiatic wild dogs, to the Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong landscape. The region, globally recognised for its one-horned rhinoceros population, is now witnessing signs of ecological recovery through the reappearance of one of Asia’s most skilled predators.
Conservation Measures Show Positive Results
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the return of the species reflects years of dedicated work aimed at improving forest health and reconnecting fragmented wildlife habitats. According to him, dholes once moved freely through several forested belts across Assam before their numbers declined over time due to habitat loss and human activity.
The state government has intensified measures in recent years to increase green cover, remove illegal encroachments from protected areas and improve links between wildlife corridors. Officials believe these actions have created a safer and more sustainable environment for several species to survive and breed naturally.
Sarma pointed out that the first indication of the dhole’s return came in 2022 when a single image was captured through a camera trap. Since then, forest teams have recorded multiple direct sightings, and authorities have now confirmed the presence of an entire pack in 2026. Wildlife experts consider this development an important indicator of improving ecological balance in the landscape.
AASU Announces Financial Support for UPSC Candidates
In another significant development from Assam, the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) has introduced financial assistance for candidates preparing for the Civil Services Examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission.
Under the student body’s “Pratyasha” initiative, 25 candidates from the state who successfully clear the UPSC preliminary examination will receive a one-time grant of ₹50,000 each. The financial support is intended to help aspirants manage expenses related to coaching classes, mock interviews and test series preparation.
AASU president Utpal Sarma said the programme was launched last year with the objective of encouraging talented students from Assam to pursue careers in the country’s administrative services. He described the initiative as an effort driven by optimism and educational support.
According to the organisation, many deserving students face financial challenges during advanced stages of UPSC preparation, especially after qualifying for the mains and interview process. The union believes the scheme can provide practical support to candidates aiming for success in one of India’s most competitive examinations.
Multinational Military Exercise Continues in Meghalaya
Meanwhile, the multinational military exercise “PRAGATI 2026” is continuing at Umroi in Meghalaya with active participation from armed forces representing 13 nations. The joint exercise, which began on May 20, marks the first edition of the large-scale international training programme.
More than 400 military personnel are taking part in the two-week event, designed to strengthen cooperation and coordination among participating countries. Defence officials stated that the exercise provides an opportunity for troops to exchange operational knowledge and improve joint response capabilities in challenging environments.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence, soldiers have been conducting combat training in semi-mountainous and jungle terrain. Activities have included ambush and counter-ambush drills, tactical coordination exercises and firing competitions involving sniper rifles and AK-203 weapons.
Military observers believe such exercises play an important role in building interoperability between friendly nations while also helping troops adapt to diverse operational conditions. The ongoing programme is expected to further strengthen defence ties and regional cooperation among participating countries.