Tripura Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma Seeks Modern Arms for Forest Guards to Combat Smuggling Threat
By Our Correspondent
Agartala, June 10, 2025
In a significant step toward strengthening forest protection in Tripura, Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma has expressed his intention to equip the state’s forest guards with modern weaponry to effectively tackle the rising threat of forest smugglers. The minister revealed that he has already held discussions with Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on the matter.
Speaking at an official event organized by the North Tripura Forest Department at Dashda Community Hall in Kanchanpur on Monday, Debbarma voiced grave concerns over the growing aggression and audacity of forest smugglers across the state. “If the Chief Minister gives a green signal, we will proceed to procure modern weapons for our forest protection force. This is crucial for safeguarding our forest resources and ensuring the safety of our frontline staff,” he stated.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, the Forest Minister warned that without modern arms and proper protection, forest guards would continue to face attacks from increasingly organized and armed groups of smugglers. “Our forest personnel are being targeted repeatedly. This cannot be allowed to continue,” he added.
In his address, Debbarma also remarked "There is a growing menace of forest bandits in the state! Forest department workers are being attacked." He expressed deep concern over these incidents and urged the government to take proactive steps to reinforce the department’s ability to defend the forests.
The minister’s remarks come at a time when forest crimes, including illegal logging and smuggling of timber and wildlife, are reportedly on the rise in parts of Tripura. His strong advocacy for arming the forest staff reflects a broader strategy to modernize the state’s forest security infrastructure in line with evolving threats.
The final decision now rests with the Chief Minister’s office. If approved, Tripura could soon become one of the few northeastern states to authorize modern arms for its forest protection force, setting a precedent for others in the region.
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