Special Tiger Protection Force for Reserves

• 21 Oct 2023

On 18^th October, 2023, the Arunachal Pradesh cabinet has given its approval for the establishment of a Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) in accordance with the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) guidelines.

• This dedicated force will serve the state's three tiger reserves: Namdapha, Pakke, and Kamlang.

Key Points

• Boosting Tiger Conservation: The STPF will be a dedicated and specialized force tailored to the unique needs of tiger reserves.
• It will consist of one company, each comprising 112 personnel, designated for the three tiger reserves. Each company will be further organized into three platoons and 18 sections.
• Aiding Wildlife Protection: The force's creation is expected to enhance the protection of tigers and their habitats, safeguard wildlife areas, combat wildlife trafficking, protect government assets within the reserves, and contribute to the scientific management of forests.
• Decline in Tiger Population: As per the 2022 national tiger census, Arunachal Pradesh's three reserves currently house a total of nine tigers.
• This marks a decrease of 20 tigers compared to the previous census conducted in 2018.
• Economic Development and Investment: The cabinet also approved an amendment to the Arunachal Pradesh State Industrial and Investment Policy 2020.
• This amendment aims to position the state as an attractive investment destination, offering special incentives like amended power subsidies to large-scale industries.
• The policy is geared toward boosting the state's economy and generating employment opportunities, along with streamlining tax incentives and facilitating single-window clearance for mandatory licenses.