A newly discovered species of bent-toed gecko, Cyrtodactylus vanarakshaka, has been found in Assam’s Dima Hasao district and named in recognition of the state forest department. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the discovery on Thursday, coinciding with Forest Martyrs Day.

Sarma said the naming pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of frontline forest staff, adding that “nature rewards their valour with a new wonder.”

According to a study in the Journal of Asia-Pacific Biodiversity, the scientific name ‘vanarakshaka’ is derived from the Sanskrit words vana (forest) and rakshaka (protector). Researchers noted that the name honours the department’s efforts in safeguarding Assam’s forests and biodiversity, and commemorates forest personnel who have died in the line of duty.