Central Forest Division conducts mock drill to enhance wildlife law enforcement
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, February 27 2026: The Central Forest Division, Manipur, successfully organised a comprehensive Capacity Building Programme and Mock Drill for frontline forest staff today at the Forest Office Complex, Mantripukhri.

As per a release issued by the Central Forest Division, the programme was aimed at strengthening field-level enforcement and effective implementation of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, the Indian Forest Act, 1927, and the Manipur Forest Rules, 1972.The event was graced by dignitaries, including RK Amarjit Singh (IFS), Conservator of Forests, Central Circle & Special Secretary (Forests, Environment & Climate Change and Land Resources Department), Manipur; Vikram Suresh Nadhe, Divisional Forest Officer, Central Forest Division; Dr Leishangthem Jeeceelee, DFO, Thoubal Forest Division; and Aquib Jamal, Assistant Conservator of Forests, Central Forest Division.

All Range Forest Officers and frontline staff of the Central Forest Division actively participated in the programme.

At the event, RK Amarjit delivered an address on the theme "Introspecting Our Role as Foresters", urging staff to reflect deeply on their responsibility towards forests, wildlife, and future generations.

He emphasized the department's ethos of discipline, integrity, and public service, while also addressing challenges in the State such as encroachment, illegal extraction, and habitat degradation.

A detailed mock drill exercise was conducted by staff from the four Range Offices under the Central Forest Division.

The drill demonstrated practical procedures and standard operating protocols for several scenarios, including: Handling eases of illegal encroachment in Reserved Forest areas, including site inspection and preparation of offence reports; Dealing with wildlife offence cases under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, including seizure procedures, arrest protocols, and safeguarding evidence; Tackling illegal felling of trees and unauthorized firewood collection, with emphasis on intensified patrolling and confiscation of tools; Addressing illegal hill earth excavation within forest areas, including interception of vehicles and machinery.

The mock drill emphasized real-time response mechanisms, proper application of legal provisions, and effective teamwork among staff.

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