Assam Reports 86.66 sq km Forest Loss Citing Jhum Cultivation and Encroachment
The Assam government, in an affidavit before the National Green Tribunal, reported a loss of 86.66 sq km of forest cover between 2021 and 2023, attributing it to shifting cultivation (jhum), border encroachment, and development projects. Dima Hasao district saw the largest decline, mainly due to jhum cultivation in areas outside forest department control. Despite this recent loss, Assam recorded a net forest cover increase of 748.65 sq km since 2013. Encroachment along the Mizoram border affected Cachar and Hailakandi districts, while Chirang faced local encroachment.
First-hand measurement across 2 sources
We measured how 2 outlets covered this story. No outlet gave this story a measurable political slant — there is no left–right reading to report. Overall sentiment is neutral (52/100). Lens Score 60/100.
Outlets measured: theassamtribune, theassamtribune. See how each one headlined and framed the same story in the source comparison below.
AI Analysis
Sentiment was consistent across outlets (52–52/100), indicating broadly factual reporting rather than editorialising.
Coverage timeline
theassamtribune broke this story on 3 Nov, 05:00 am. Other outlets followed.