In a significant move to combat deforestation and illegal timber smuggling, the Tripura government has announced the creation of a Forest Intelligence Wing to enhance the protection of the state’s forest resources. The initiative, spearheaded by Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma, aims to curb unauthorized tree felling, encroachment, and poaching.
Speaking to reporters in West Tripura, Debbarma revealed that the intelligence wing will initially be staffed with police personnel, with plans to recruit dedicated forest intelligence officers in the future. The minister has also requested Tripura State Rifles (TSR) troops to assist senior forest officials in safeguarding forested areas.
The decision comes amid growing concerns over illegal logging and timber smuggling, which have made Tripura’s forests increasingly vulnerable. Since January 2022, over 11,460 old trees have been cut down for national highway expansion, with permission from the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
To support forest officials, the government has distributed 58 motorcycles to range officers, improving mobility and surveillance capabilities. Debbarma emphasized that development must align with conservation, stating, “Protecting forests is essential for protecting human lives. True development must revolve around conservation, not deforestation.”
The initiative aligns with Tripura’s broader environmental goals, including the state-level mass plantation drive, which aims to plant five lakh saplings in five minutes to boost forest cover.
With the establishment of the Forest Intelligence Wing, Tripura is set to strengthen its conservation framework, ensuring that forest protection remains a priority alongside infrastructure development.
