Assam Government Enhances Forest Protection with New Arms and Vehicles
Strengthening Forest Security in Assam
Guwahati, June 5: To tackle poaching and enhance forest security, the Assam government has approved the provision of arms and ammunition for the Forest Protection Force (FPF).
This announcement was made by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma during a World Environment Day celebration at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra in Guwahati.
In a statement to the media following the event, the Chief Minister emphasized that this initiative would empower forest officials to effectively combat poaching and wildlife crimes independently.
“Upon taking office, we established the third battalion of the Forest Protection Force. Today, we have allocated all essential equipment, arms, and ammunition to enhance their operational capacity,” Sarma stated.
Additionally, the government introduced 130 new SUVs designated for various wildlife ranges and divisions.
“These vehicles were distributed today, with plans for further procurement in the near future for territorial ranges,” he noted.
Sarma reiterated that these initiatives are part of a comprehensive strategy to strengthen forest protection in the state.
Addressing concerns regarding personnel shortages within the FPF, the Chief Minister refuted claims of insufficient staff.
“We have adequate human resources. The challenge lies in deployment and management, as many personnel request transfers due to age and health concerns,” he clarified.
The reinforcement of arms comes as anti-poaching operations intensify in Assam, with security agencies alerting that poachers may have connections to terrorist groups in the Northeast.
Recently, two poachers were killed in separate encounters within Kaziranga National Park.
On May 28, a suspected poacher was shot during an encounter involving forest guards and Assam Police.
A week prior, another armed poacher was killed near the Duramari Anti-Poaching Camp in the Agoratoli range.
With the recent enhancements in weaponry and mobility, the state government aims to further reduce wildlife crime and protect Assam’s rich biodiversity.