UP to Modernise Forest Force With Command Centre to Tackle Man-Animal Conflict

The Uttar Pradesh government has announced plans to modernise its Forest Force to better address challenges such as rising human-animal conflict, officials said on Friday. The initiative aims to strengthen field operations, improve response time, and equip forest personnel with advanced tools and training to manage wildlife-related incidents more effectively.

State Forest Minister Arun K. Saxena said the move comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance forest management and conservation efforts. Addressing a press conference in Lucknow, he highlighted the state’s achievements in afforestation, noting that Uttar Pradesh has planted over 242.18 crore saplings since 2017, significantly improving its green cover over the years.

As part of the initiative, a comprehensive modernisation plan is expected to be finalised by April. According to officials, the upgrade will include the establishment of a central command centre, the use of advanced gadgets and equipment for field staff, and improved mobility through better vehicles. Training programmes will also be introduced to ensure personnel can effectively utilise new technologies in forest operations.

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Sunil Chaudhary, head of the Uttar Pradesh Forest Force and principal chief conservator of forests, stated that the state is among the first in the country to take such a step. He emphasised that the initiative would help address operational challenges faced by forest staff and enhance coordination during emergencies, particularly in conflict-prone areas.

The announcement coincides with preparations for a national-level conference to be held in Lucknow on March 21, marking World Forestry Day. The event will bring together forest officials and experts from across the country to discuss strategies, share experiences, and explore solutions to common environmental and wildlife-related challenges.

Officials said the conference will provide a platform for states to exchange best practices and collaborate on improving forest management systems. Uttar Pradesh plans to showcase its afforestation success and learn from other regions, with the aim of strengthening its policies and ensuring better coexistence between humans and wildlife.

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