Majuli is the largest Water River Island in the world. It is situated in the upper reaches of the river Brahmaputra in Assam within the latitude of 260 45’ N – 270 12’ N & longitude of 930 39’ E – 940 35’ E with mean height of 84.5 Mt. above MSL.

                     This landmass, with a population of 1.6 Lakhs, majority being tribals, has a very rich heritage and has been the abode of Assamese Vashnavite culture with tremendous potential for spiritual and Eco-tourism. The island is a bio-diversity hotspot and has rich ecology with rare breeds of flora and fauna.

                     Now, however, due to relentless erosion, the very existence of the island is threatened. It is facing substantial erosion since the great earthquake of 1950 and the erosion has became acute after 1974. About 1/3rd of the landmass has been eroded in the past half century. Annual floods have also been playing havoc due to shallowing of the river Brahmaputra, resulting in losses amounting to crores of rupees to the national exchequer every year without any permanent solution till now.

                      The issue of protection of Majuli Island has been raised at different levels during the last couple of years. Its uniqueness due to cultural and natural heritage makes it a fit case for preserving under the aegis of the UNESCO as a world heritage site. Govt. of India has already sent study teams both from Archeology and Environment Departments and findings are quite positive.