Bureau Report, Guwahati: In a significant move to strengthen forest security and curb poaching, the Assam government on Thursday sanctioned arms and ammunition for the Forest Protection Force (FPF). The announcement was made by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma during a World Environment Day event at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra in Guwahati. Addressing the press, the Chief Minister said the decision would empower forest personnel to operate more independently and effectively in combating wildlife crime. “Since coming to power, we have established the third battalion of the Forest Protection Force. Today, we have sanctioned all necessary arms and equipment for them. This will enhance their operational strength,” Sarma stated. In addition to the arms approval, the government also flagged off 130 new SUV vehicles to be deployed across various wildlife divisions and ranges. The Chief Minister confirmed that more vehicles would be procured soon for territorial ranges to improve mobility and response time in forested areas. Rejecting claims of staff shortages in the Forest Protection Force, Sarma clarified that the challenge lies in effective deployment rather than numbers. “We have adequate personnel, but many seek transfers due to health issues as they age,” he explained. The move comes amid heightened anti-poaching efforts in Assam. In recent weeks, two suspected poachers were killed in encounters in Kaziranga National Park—one on May 28 during a joint operation by forest guards and police, and another near the Duramari Anti-Poaching Camp in the Agoratoli range. With the latest reinforcements in weaponry and mobility, the state government aims to intensify its crackdown on poaching networks, some of which are believed to have links with insurgent groups, and reinforce its commitment to protecting Assam’s rich biodiversity.
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