Agniveers to guard Corbett’s tigers in Uttarakhand: CM Dhami launches wildlife security drive on International Tiger Day
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced that Agniveers will be directly deployed in Corbett's Tiger Protection Force. The initiative, revealed on International Tiger Day, aims to curb poaching, enhance forest security, and offer employment to Army-trained youth across the state.
Dehradun: In a major push for wildlife conservation, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has announced the direct deployment of Agniveers in the newly formed Tiger Protection Force at Corbett Tiger Reserve.
This decision, announced on the occasion of International Tiger Day, aims to improve security for India’s tigers while providing disciplined Agniveers with new employment opportunities.
Tiger Protection Force will initially recruit over 80 Agniveers
The specialized force will initially recruit over 80 Agniveers, all trained under the Indian Army’s Agnipath scheme. Their military training, physical endurance, and strategic skills are expected to enhance forest patrolling, prevent poaching, and assist in managing human-wildlife conflict, which has been on the rise due to saturated tiger habitats.
This force will play a crucial role in curbing wildlife crimes
CM Dhami stated that the Tiger Protection Force will play a crucial role in curbing wildlife crimes, including timber smuggling, illegal mining, and forest encroachments. "This team will patrol sensitive zones, collect actionable intelligence, and respond quickly to threats,” he said. "The protection of natural habitats and tiger territory is non-negotiable.”
Trained personnel will also be equipped with modern surveillance tools
Importantly, these trained personnel will also be equipped with modern surveillance tools such as drones, thermal imaging devices, and GPS tracking systems, increasing their efficiency in covering vast forest areas. The move aims to ensure real-time monitoring and response capabilities in and around Corbett—home to the highest number of tigers in India.
Inclusion of local youth in the force will add geographic understanding
CM Dhami highlighted that the inclusion of local youth in the force will add geographic and cultural understanding to the patrol efforts. "Agniveers from Uttarakhand know the terrain, the weather patterns, and the communities living near forests. Their presence makes the protection system stronger and more responsive.”
Tiger Protection Force will also help manage conflict zones
Beyond curbing poaching, the Tiger Protection Force will also help manage conflict zones, especially in areas where tigers wander close to human habitations. With specialized training, these recruits will work to safely divert wild animals and reduce risk to local communities.
Dhami emphasized that this model—merging national service discipline with wildlife protection—could be replicated in other tiger reserves across India. "This is more than just a conservation effort. It’s a message that India’s youth, our soldiers, and our forest guardians stand united for a shared cause.”
With Corbett facing rising pressure from tourism and ecological challenges, the deployment of a dedicated, armed protection force marks a milestone in India’s tiger conservation journey. Officials hope this integrated approach sets a new standard for sustainable and secure wildlife management across the country.