Basic wildlife rescue kits including trap cages, trapping nets, tranquilizing kits with drugs will be part of the modernization initiative. file | Photo Credit: Satyamurthy M
The state government has given administrative approval of ₹52.83 crore for the modernization of Tamil Nadu Forest Force for the year 2022-25.
During the Revised Budget Estimates (2021-22), the government had announced in the Assembly that special attention would be given to the forest force by providing it with modern equipment and technology, including unmanned aerial vehicles, artificial intelligence, GIS and MIS based management systems. , updated weapons and forest worthy vehicles.
Now the government has decided to give shape to the announcement by sanctioning Rs 52.83 crore for scientific forest management, training, strengthening distribution infrastructure and improving the capacity and mobility of field staff to handle human-wildlife conflict.
Additional Chief Secretary Environment, Climate Change and Forests Supriya Sahu has passed an order to this effect.
In the first year a fixed wing drone with all accessories will be procured. At a cost of ₹6.80 Cr. A mobile ground control station will be set up at a cost of Rs 1.50 crore. In addition, 35 multi-purpose and all-terrain vehicles will be procured at a cost of Rs 5.25 crore for wild animal rescue and fire fighting activities.
Along with them, basic wildlife rescue kit including trap cage, trapping net, tranquilizing kit with medicines for each vehicle will be procured at a cost of ₹1.05 crore. Also Rs 2.70 crore will be spent on purchasing modern forest fire control equipment and contemporary fire rescue kit.
In three years, 25 anti-poaching camps will be upgraded at a cost of Rs 3.50 crore. Another 20 anti-poaching and transit camps will be set up at a cost of Rs 4.40 crore. In the second year, a command and control center for management of human wildlife conflict will be established at a priority high conflict area at a cost of ₹6.00 crore.