Dehradun: The Uttarakhand Government has approved a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening wildlife conservation, improving tiger protection, reducing human-wildlife conflict, and promoting sustainable eco-tourism across the state.
The decisions were taken during the 23rd meeting of the Uttarakhand State Wildlife Board, chaired by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami at the Secretariat in Dehradun. The meeting focused on biodiversity conservation, wildlife management, eco-tourism, and balancing infrastructure development with environmental protection.
One of the major decisions taken during the meeting was the approval to establish a Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) for the Corbett Tiger Reserve and Rajaji Tiger Reserve.
The dedicated force will help strengthen:
- Tiger conservation efforts.
- Protection of sensitive forest areas.
- Prevention of wildlife crimes.
- Scientific wildlife management.
- Security of protected habitats.
Chief Minister Dhami said wildlife conservation remains a priority for the state and directed officials to develop effective strategies for protecting wildlife while reducing human-animal conflicts.
The Wildlife Board also approved the expanded use of modern technology for wildlife protection and monitoring.
The state plans to strengthen surveillance through:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based monitoring.
- Camera trap networks.
- Drone surveillance.
- Modern monitoring equipment.
- Scientific wildlife management systems.
The technology is expected to improve wildlife tracking, habitat monitoring, and early detection of threats in protected areas.
The Chief Minister instructed officials to implement measures that reduce interactions between humans and wild animals.
Key priorities include:
- Strengthening wildlife corridors.
- Improving emergency response systems.
- Enhancing public participation in conservation.
- Providing timely support to affected families.
- Promoting better coordination among government agencies.
The government emphasized that conservation and development should progress together while protecting ecological balance.
To improve emergency preparedness, the state will enhance the capabilities of Quick Response Teams (QRTs) operating in wildlife-sensitive areas.
The upgraded teams will receive:
- Snake rescue kits.
- Solar-powered lighting equipment.
- Surveillance devices.
- Additional field resources.
Special deployment of QRTs has also been planned during the Haridwar Kumbh Mela to help prevent and respond to potential human-wildlife conflict situations.
The Wildlife Board also discussed expanding eco-tourism while ensuring environmental sustainability.
The government plans to encourage:
- Eco-friendly safari vehicles.
- Sustainable tourism practices.
- Conservation-focused tourism models.
- Greater participation of local communities.
Officials believe responsible wildlife tourism can create employment opportunities while supporting long-term conservation goals.
Chief Minister Dhami directed officials to ensure that compensation for families affected by wildlife attacks is provided within the prescribed timelines.
The government also announced plans to recognise individuals who display exceptional courage in saving lives during human-wildlife conflict incidents through state-level honours.
These measures aim to strengthen public confidence and encourage community participation in wildlife conservation.
The Wildlife Board reviewed several infrastructure proposals located near protected forest areas.
Projects involving:
- Gas pipeline infrastructure in the Rajaji National Park region.
- Road development.
- ITBP infrastructure.
- Optical fibre cable networks.
will be forwarded to the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife, subject to compliance with environmental safeguards and conservation guidelines.
The government reiterated that development projects will continue while ensuring protection of sensitive ecosystems.
The meeting also emphasized the need to strengthen natural habitats by focusing on:
- Wildlife movement corridors.
- Development of natural water sources.
- Grassland restoration.
- Forest fire management.
- Biodiversity conservation.
Chief Minister Dhami highlighted Uttarakhand’s rich biodiversity and stressed the importance of combining modern technology with community participation to strengthen conservation efforts.
