Hyderabad: Forest and Environment Minister Konda Surekha has pledged unwavering support for forest staff, assuring them that the Preventive Detention (PD) Act will be invoked against anyone who attacks forest officials in the line of duty. The assurance came during a crucial meeting held with forest associations at the state secretariat on Tuesday.
“I Will Stand by Forest Officers Like a Sister”
Minister Surekha struck a deeply personal tone during the meeting, saying:
“I will stand by forest staff like a sister. Minor issues should be resolved within the department, and I will take major concerns directly to the Chief Minister.”
Describing the Forest Department as a family, she emphasized that forest personnel are the first line of defense in environmental conservation and deserve full support from the state government.
Key Promises Made by the Minister
- Application of PD Act against those attacking forest staff
- Pay and allowances at par with police personnel
- Revival of awards and recognition programs discontinued post-Telangana formation
- Discussion with the Chief Minister on pending welfare initiatives
Forest Associations Present Long List of Demands
Leaders of forest staff associations welcomed the minister’s support but submitted a comprehensive list of pending issues that require urgent attention. Their demands included:
- Strict action against encroachers, modeled after Maharashtra’s approach
- Filling of 2,000 vacant posts and restructuring roles at the district level
- Provision of vehicles for field officers and more forest stations per district
- Compulsory transfers every 3 years to avoid stagnation
- Arms for protection staff and rent-free rural housing
- Equal educational benefits for children of forest staff, like those of police
- Gazetted status for deputy rangers and faster promotion processes
- Speedy disposal of disciplinary cases to avoid career setbacks
- Reorganisation of beats and sections for better field efficiency
Minister Reiterates Commitment to Forest Conservation and Staff Welfare
Konda Surekha acknowledged the importance of these demands, stating that she had already raised some of them in a recent review with the Chief Minister, who responded positively. She assured the associations that many of their issues will be addressed in a phased manner and with the urgency they deserve.
“Forest staff are protectors of Telangana’s green cover. Ensuring their safety, respect, and welfare is not just a departmental issue — it’s a state priority,” she added.
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