Guwahati: In the heart of Assam’s cultural cradle, Majuli, the world’s largest river island, thousands of migratory birds, travelers along the Central Asian Flyway, arrived this winter from the Siberian tundras, Mongolian steppes, and northern Eurasian regions to forage in its wetlands and fields.
This seasonal migration, documented in ecological records and local folklore for centuries, has been a regular feature of the region.
On Republic Day, January 26, 2026, over 50 greylag geese were found dead across farmlands in Dakshinpat Kumar Gaon, Sumoimari, Komargaon, Rawanagaon, and Kamargaon. Officials suspect deliberate poisoning using pesticides and toxic baits.
Forest officials, responding to alerts from villagers, recovered poisoned evidence and detained 17 individuals, including four women. A key accused from Barpeta district has also been arrested.
Eight surviving birds received care at Ratanpur Veterinary Hospital; six of them later died.
“These birds arrive earlier each year, seeking refuge and sustenance before their long return journey,” a senior forest official said. “While the nation celebrated freedom, someone chose to poison these innocent guests in our fields.”
The Central Asian Flyway spans 30 countries and hosts over 600 migratory species. These birds have visited Assam’s wetlands for generations, documented in early 20th-century surveys and indigenous narratives.
Majuli’s beels and chaporis serve as important wintering grounds that support biodiversity and local ecosystems.
However, recurring poisonings have been reported for over a decade, with 9–10 incidents recorded annually since at least 2021. Investigations suggest links to poaching for meat or illicit trade, often involving banned substances such as Furadan.
Similar events, including mass vulture deaths in 2022, indicate a persistent problem despite the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
Authorities conduct patrols, issue habitat notifications, perform rescues and post-mortems, and follow India’s National Action Plan for Migratory Birds, which emphasizes monitoring, habitat restoration, and awareness campaigns. International commitments under the Convention on Migratory Species also support these efforts.
Challenges remain: remote locations complicate enforcement, poverty contributes to subsistence poaching, weak pesticide regulation allows toxic substances to circulate, and community education is limited.
“We patrol, we rescue, we educate, but the poison keeps flowing,” an environmentalist said. “Assam boasts of its avian heritage, yet fails to shield it from greed and neglect.”
Authorities warn that without multi-layered reforms, stricter regulations, empowered communities, and rigorous enforcement, these migratory birds may continue to face significant threats.