Airgun Surrender Abhiyan – Arunachal’s grassroots wildlife movement garners national, global acclaim.

What had begun as a humble initiative in the villages of Arunachal Pradesh has now grown into a powerful nationwide conservation movement. The Airgun Surrender Abhiyan, launched to curb the indiscriminate hunting of wildlife, including birds, using air guns, has achieved a remarkable milestone with over 2,400 air guns voluntarily surrendered by citizens across Arunachal which is significantly a symbolic and practical step toward preserving the state’s rich biodiversity.

The initiative has earned widespread praise, including special mention by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his popular radio address ‘Mann Ki Baat’, where he commended the people of Arunachal for their deep commitment to nature. It has also been recognised by UNESCO as India’s most promising wildlife conservation success story, underscoring Arunachal’s deep-rooted respect for nature and its biodiversity.

Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu said “a movement that started from the grassroots and is now being celebrated nationwide. This is a proud moment for Arunachal”, He highlighted its significant role in protecting Arunachal’s rich and fragile wildlife.

Social media users and environmental enthusiasts have hailed the initiative as a model for the nation. One user Joram Tat aptly said: “The Air Gun Surrender Abhiyan reflects Arunachal’s deep-rooted commitment to wildlife conservation. Proud to see it gaining national and global recognition—an inspiration for all”.

As the campaign continues to inspire communities across India, it stands as a testament to the power of people-led conservation efforts and Arunachal’s leadership in sustainable environmental stewardship.

Team Maverick