In the quiet corners of Assam’s lush landscapes, one woman wages a green war against deforestation — alone and uncelebrated.
Munmuni Payeng, affectionately called the “Forest Queen of Assam”, has made it her life’s mission to plant one million trees across the fragile ecosystems of the Northeast. Her dedication to restoring green cover and reviving biodiversity is nothing short of heroic. Yet, in a world obsessed with influencers and internet fame, Munmuni’s silent revolution goes largely unnoticed.
Born in a small village near Majuli, Munmuni began planting trees in her teens, inspired by her father, Padma Shri recipient Jadav Payeng — the “Forest Man of India”. While his efforts earned national and international acclaim, Munmuni’s solitary journey has remained in the shadows.
Over the past decade, she has planted over 300,000 saplings across flood-ravaged areas, barren lands, and degraded forests. Walking miles each day, often with no help, she carries water, digs holes, and protects each sapling like her own child. She has created mini-forests that now shelter elephants, birds, and insects — reviving entire microhabitats.
Yet, no awards. No headlines. No social media virality.
“It’s not for recognition,” Munmuni says softly. “But sometimes, I do feel invisible. The trees know I’m here, though. And that’s enough.”
Her story is a stark reminder: while the planet faces climate catastrophe, the real warriors aren’t always in front of cameras. They’re in the soil — planting hope one tree at a time.
