As his three-year era from February 2023 to February 2026 comes to an end, Jiju Jaesper Joseph, IFS, leaves behind an extraordinary legacy in forest and wildlife conservation, after dedicated service over three impactful years, in Malda district before taking charge of Jalpaiguri division, to continue his responsibility as a committed forest administrator, and through visionary leadership, scientific initiatives, and compassionate governance that strengthened environmental protection across the district.
Over these three years, he established himself as a highly efficient and visionary Divisional Forest Officer. Under his leadership, the state witnessed its first directive for tree translocation during road expansion projects — a landmark decision that will be remembered for years by environmental activists and conscious citizens alike.
His guidance made possible significant conservation milestones, including dolphin census initiatives along the Ganges and the reintroduction of the endangered gharial species in Malda district. At a time when mango orchards were being cleared across the district and unplanned urbanization was rapidly replacing greenery with concrete, he initiated the ambitious Green Village Project. Through field surveys conducted by NSS volunteers from various colleges and in collaboration with Sahakar (NGO), a monitoring committee was formed to systematically work toward increasing district greenery.
Immediate and firm action was taken under his administration to prevent attacks on birds, conduct bird censuses, and curb illegal tree felling. Notably, during his tenure, the first photographic documentation in West Bengal of the Australasian Grass-Owl was achieved — a moment of immense pride for the people of Malda.
From protecting the Bakul tree at 420 More, safeguarding the trees in front of the Town Hall, preventing tree felling during road expansion in Kaliachak, conserving the district’s pride Hijol forest, ensuring road development within Bhaluka Forest without unnecessary tree cutting, to rescuing rare injured migratory birds in Old Malda — in countless environmental causes, we have been enriched by his administrative wisdom and humane guidance. His support gave us renewed confidence and strength to continue our environmental protection efforts.
Today, as he leaves Malda to assume responsibility in Jalpaiguri, we reaffirm our commitment to work even harder for environmental conservation.
On this farewell occasion, Sahakar, Malda family expresses its deepest respect and heartfelt salute to our beloved and respected officer,
