How is Tripura's Forest Dept addressing deforestation?
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Synopsis
In Tripura, a bold initiative is underway to combat deforestation and illegal logging. The Forest Department plans to set up an intelligence unit to protect vital forest resources. Minister Animesh Debbarma emphasizes the importance of conservation for sustainable development, raising questions about the impact of infrastructure expansion on forest cover.
Key Takeaways
- Formation of an intelligence unit to combat illegal logging.
- Integration of police personnel for initial staffing.
- Deployment of Tripura State Rifles for forest protection.
- Mass plantation drives initiated to increase forest cover.
- Development efforts should prioritize conservation.
Agartala, May 1 (NationPress) As part of its efforts to combat deforestation, illegal logging, and timber smuggling, the Tripura Forest Department is set to establish a dedicated intelligence unit and enhance its protection squad, announced Minister Animesh Debbarma on Thursday.
Minister Debbarma revealed that the initial phase will involve the integration of personnel from the Tripura Police into this new intelligence unit, with plans for future recruitment of new staff for the division.
“I have also appealed to Chief Minister Manik Saha to assign an adequate number of Tripura State Rifles (TSR) troops to safeguard the forests and their resources. These TSR members will operate under the guidance of senior forest officials,” the minister informed IANS.
Trained in counter-insurgency tactics, the elite TSR comprises 14 battalions. Debbarma, who also oversees the Science, Technology, and Environment Department, emphasized the urgent need for significant measures to protect the forests and their valuable resources.
He pointed out that Tripura's main forest resources are increasingly at risk due to illegal logging, timber trafficking, and various other unlawful activities.
“The current circumstances in forest regions pose significant challenges for forest guards and officials. Smuggling, unauthorized tree cutting, poaching, and human interference in protected areas have escalated dramatically in the state,” he stated.
On Wednesday, during an event at the Tripura State Forest Academy in Hatipara, West Tripura, the minister presented 58 motorcycles to forest range officers. He stressed that development initiatives should not compromise forest conservation.
“Safeguarding forests is crucial for the well-being of humans. Genuine development should focus on conservation rather than deforestation,” he remarked.
Highlighting that forests cover nearly 62 percent of Tripura's land area, Debbarma questioned the necessity of the increasing number of national highways, many of which have resulted in widespread tree cutting.
He previously mentioned that since January 2022, up until recently, 11,460 mature trees were legally felled for the expansion of various national highways in Tripura.
Debbarma clarified that the state government had obtained permission from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and adhered to all necessary protocols before proceeding with the tree removals.
Additionally, he noted that Chief Minister Saha led a state-level mass plantation initiative on July 5 of the previous year, aiming for '5 lakh saplings in 5 minutes' to enhance forest cover in the northeastern region.
Before this mass plantation event, the Forest Department had distributed over seven lakh saplings to students, clubs, organizations, banks, and security forces.
“Our commitment to tree planting extends beyond a single event. The mass plantation drive will continue during the upcoming monsoon season and beyond,” the minister affirmed.
Point of View
We recognize the importance of balancing development with conservation, an essential aspect of sustainable growth that benefits both local communities and the ecosystem.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the new intelligence unit?
The intelligence unit aims to combat deforestation, illegal logging, and timber smuggling in Tripura.
How will the Forest Department staff this unit?
Initially, personnel from the Tripura Police will be integrated, followed by new recruitments for the unit.
What role will the Tripura State Rifles play?
TSR troops will assist in protecting forest resources under the direction of senior forest officials.
What recent measures have been taken to promote forest conservation?
The Minister announced a mass plantation drive and distributed saplings to various organizations to enhance forest cover.
What impact does infrastructure expansion have on forests?
The expansion of national highways has led to significant tree felling, prompting concerns about forest conservation.
