Agniveer Recruitment: Agniveers to save tigers now… Recruitment to take place for the Tiger Protection Force..

The Uttarakhand government has taken a major decision to further strengthen tiger protection. A Tiger Protection Force (TPF) will be established in the Rajaji Tiger Reserve, modeled after the one in Corbett, with priority given to recruiting 'Agniveers' (soldiers completing their tenure under the Agnipath scheme). This proposal was approved during a meeting of the State Wildlife Board chaired by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. Several key decisions were made regarding wildlife conservation, mitigating human-wildlife conflict, utilizing modern technology, cracking down on wildlife trafficking, and environmental protection. The government aims to enhance local community participation alongside ensuring tiger safety.

The government believes that trained and disciplined Agniveers can play a pivotal role in wildlife protection. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated at the State Wildlife Board meeting that wildlife conservation efforts in the state would be further strengthened. Additionally, promoting wildlife-based tourism will create new employment and income opportunities for local residents. Officials were also directed to formulate effective plans to curb the rising instances of human-wildlife conflict.

**Tech-based monitoring and a crackdown on trafficking**
The government has emphasized the use of modern technology for tiger conservation. Measures such as AI-based monitoring systems, the preservation of wildlife corridors, and the development of natural water sources and pastures will be implemented. Proposals have also been made to fit elephants with radio collars for monitoring during the Kumbh-2027 event and to install AI-based surveillance systems in the Rajaji area. To curb wildlife trafficking, a proposal will be sent to the administration to authorize the Forest Department to access Call Detail Records (CDRs), thereby making crime investigations more effective.

**Special focus on reducing human-wildlife conflict**
The government has taken several significant decisions to address human-wildlife conflict. Courageous citizens who save lives during such conflicts will be honored at the state level. Instructions have also been issued to ensure that compensation is provided to the families of those killed or injured in wildlife attacks within a stipulated timeframe. Additionally, a proposal to establish regional leopard treatment and rehabilitation centers in 10 districts will be sent to the Central Government.

Scientific studies on the behavior of bears and leopards will be conducted, and the process of forming human-wildlife conflict management committees in every district will be expedited. The government also clarified that all projects would be advanced while maintaining a balance between development activities and environmental conservation.

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