SHILLONG: Despite the vulnerable security scenario in Garo Hills, a forest guard from the region was recognized for his relentless duty in the face of all odds.
Sontush A. Sangma, forest guard of Balpakram National Park Division was conferred with the prestigious Balipara Foundation Award 2015 at Guwahati on November 6 for his incredible service to Meghalaya’s wildlife for almost 30 years and resisting militants and poachers. Sangma, a forest guard of Chimitap Forest Beat Office, Balpakram National Park Division
was part of the recent terrestrial mammal survey (using camera trapping) project undertaken in the Balpakram landscape and his performance has been exceptional.
Sangma joined Meghalaya Forest department in 1985 as a muster roll employee and currently serves as a forest guard of gateman rank.
He has worked on numerous beats and had faced-off with illegal loggers, militants and poachers, always maintaining a calm and steady demeanor, leading his team from the front and ensuring their safety.
With a focus on Eastern Himalayas, Balipara Foundation, presents awards in various categories to individuals, communities and organisations for making efforts towards constructive changes in the environment.
