Dehradun: The Uttarakhand Forest Department is set to introduce a Seva Medal for its employees, similar to the one awarded to police officers. In a bid to further strengthen the welfare of forest personnel, a dedicated “forest line” will also be created, akin to the police line, for the field workers who are responsible for protecting the state’s forests and wildlife.
The announcement comes after a meeting between the Indian Forest Service Association of Uttarakhand and Forest and Environment Minister Subodh Uniyal. Minister Uniyal has assured that the proposals from the Association would be given positive consideration. One of the proposals includes awarding the status of ‘forest martyr’ and providing Rs 25 lakh as financial assistance to forest personnel who lose their lives in wildlife-related incidents.
On Saturday, the annual conference of the Indian Forest Service Association was inaugurated at the Manthan Auditorium in the Forest Headquarters, Rajpur Road. The event was graced by Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal, who participated as the chief guest, along with Chief Forest Conservator Dr. Dhananjay Mohan, senior forest department officials, and Association President Kapil Lal.
During the conference, members of the association discussed vital topics related to forest management, wildlife conservation, biodiversity, pollution prevention, commercial forestry, and watershed management in Uttarakhand. Minister Uniyal lauded the efforts of the Indian Forest Service officers and emphasized the importance of adopting modern technologies and ensuring community participation in forest management.
The second day of the conference will continue with discussions on the state’s forest and environmental conservation and the future direction of the forest department.
As part of the ongoing conference, the Association submitted three significant proposals to Minister Uniyal. These include:
- Introducing the Governor’s Excellent Service Medal, Chief Minister’s Commendable Service Medal, and Forest Force Chief Prestigious Medal to recognize exemplary work by forest personnel.
- Granting the status of forest martyr to those martyred in wildlife attacks and providing a financial ex-gratia of Rs 25 lakh.
- Establishing dedicated forest lines in Garhwal (Dehradun region) and Kumaon (Haldwani region) to support frontline forest employees.
These proposals reflect the growing efforts to improve the welfare and recognition of those working tirelessly in the protection of Uttarakhand’s forests and wildlife.
