Nameri Wild Classroom Initiative: Assam Government Takes Student Learning into the Forest

The Assam government has launched the Nameri Wild Classroom initiative for 10th to 12th October 2026, which lets students learn about nature by spending time inside a forest. Assam Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah announced the scheme, which is based at Nameri Tiger Reserve.

What is the Nameri Wild Classroom Initiative?

The Nameri Wild Classroom is an educational programme run by the Assam Forest Department. Students of Class VIII and above, including college students, can take part. Instead of reading about forests in textbooks, they learn by living and observing in one.

The minister described forests as living classrooms that teach lessons books cannot always offer. The programme aims to build curiosity, scientific thinking and a sense of responsibility towards the environment.

Aim of the Nameri Wild Classroom Initiative 

An initiative aimed at giving school and college students hands-on experience of nature and wildlife at the Nameri Tiger Reserve.

10-12 October: Two and Three-Day Programmes for Students

The scheme is offered as residential programmes lasting two or three days. Naturalists and forest staff guide the students and explain how wildlife, forests, rivers and people are connected. Each student keeps a field journal to record observations and receives a certificate after completing the programme.

What Are the Activities Involved in the Assam Nameri Wild Classroom Initiative?

Students will take part in several hands-on activities:

• Birdwatching and guided forest walks
• Wildlife tracking
• Activities focused on river ecology
• Rafting on the Jia-Bharali River
• Learning about the traditions and knowledge of local communities living around the reserve

The minister also said the programme can inspire young people to consider careers in wildlife research, ecology and conservation. In his words, conservation begins with awareness and grows through participation.

Where is Nameri Tiger Reserve located? 

Nameri Tiger Reserve lies in Assam’s Sonitpur district, in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas. It shares its border with Arunachal Pradesh and adjoins Pakke Tiger Reserve. The Jia-Bharali River flows through the area. The reserve is known for tigers, elephants and rich birdlife, including the rare white-winged wood duck.