JHARKHAND LAUNCHES MASSIVE FOREST DRIVE: ELEPHANT CORRIDORS, ECO-TOURISM, AND LAND BANKS TAKE CENTER STAGE

RANCHI: Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (HoFF) Sanjeev Kumar chaired a high-level review meeting at the Forest Headquarters today to overhaul Jharkhand’s forest management. The state-level assembly focused on connecting rural communities with forest conservation while aggressively tackling human-wildlife conflict.

Community-Led Protection and Wildlife Safety

PCCF Sanjeev Kumar strongly reiterated the need for immediate action regarding human-elephant conflicts. Kumar ordered the fast-tracking of all pending compensation payments to affected villagers. He also directed officials to utilize the “Hamar Hathi” mobile application and prioritize the revival of traditional elephant corridors to ensure safety for both humans and animals.

To strengthen forest security, the department will actively partner with Joint Forest Management Committees. “Forests must be protected at all costs, and all encroachment on forest land must be stopped immediately,” Kumar stated.

Eco-Tourism and Infrastructure Boost

The meeting highlighted Jharkhand’s immense potential for eco-tourism. Officials received directives to identify, restore, and develop new tourist sites across the state. Plans were also reviewed for upcoming major events, including the National Forest Fair and the Indian Forestry Congress.

Additionally, the Executive Director of the Wasteland Development Board ordered all Regional Chief Conservators and Divisional Forest Officers (DFOs) to establish a land bank to expedite pending forest clearance works.

Structural Reforms and Innovations

The comprehensive review covered key operational areas:

* Forest crime and illegal mining
* Closure of illegal saw mills
* Forest fire safety protocols
* Establishment of new zoos

On the administrative front, APCCF Siddharth Tripathi proposed the establishment of a dedicated Agro-Forestry and Research Center. CCF Wildlife S R Natesh also outlined fresh strategies for wildlife protection. Top forest officials, including A T Mishra, Vishwanath Shah, and Ravi Ranjan, attended the session to coordinate these state-wide initiatives.