Monday, Nov 22, 2010
http://www.hindu.com/2010/11/22/stories/2010112261320400.htm
KOCHI: The Kerala Forest Department officials have only basic expertise in criminal investigation against hi-tech wildlife offences, said a communication from senior officers that was drafted for a brainstorming session on modernisation of the Forest Department. The session was held at the Forest Headquarters on Saturday.
It said expertise in criminal investigation needed to be improved considering the fact that wildlife offenders used modern methods and engaged high-tech communication gadgets. The crimes were committed in an organised manner and inter-State groups were found involved in the offence, the communication said.
It said the criminal investigation wing needed to be overhauled and modern training should be imparted to the staff. It also rued the fact that there had only been a marginal increase in the number of protective staff of the Department.
Many Forest staff members were unaware of the practical application and knowledge of modern technologies such as Global Positioning System, Geographical Indication System and computers. The staff also should be exposed to the branches of science like forestry research and wildlife sciences, it was pointed out.
The department officials stated that Forest guards were working under tough conditions.
There has also been a drain in staff strength as many guards were found opting for lower posts in other departments. Lack of proper accommodation, travel and communication facilities and other social amenities for the guards might be reasons for the staff drain. Considering the gravity of the work and the risks that the Department has to face, the shortage of protective staff was a matter of grave concern, the communication said.
Currently, 2,404 guards, 859 foresters, 160 forest watchers, 138 deputy rangers and 204 range officers were serving the department to protect 1,1033.3877 sq km of forest.
The department was also aware of the need to prevent separatist forces from operating from the interior forests of Kerala as has happened in North India, the department cautioned.
Deliberations were held in 10 key areas, including prevention, biodiversity conservation, protection of biodiversity in non-forest areas, natural forest management and delegation of powers. Invited experts were divided into 10 groups for discussions and each group made a presentation. The recommendations of the committee appointed to give suggestions regarding the overhauling and modernisation is expected to be ready by December, officials said.
