1. The government to strengthen Forest Department, recruitment of 1,516 posts underway
2. A monetary award of Rs. 10,000 is being awarded each year to exceptional frontline officers in every district     

Minister for Forests and Environment Konda Surekha has announced that the families of forest martyrs will soon receive benefits on par with those of police personnel who die in the line of duty.

At the National Forest Martyrs’ Memorial Day held at Nehru Zoo Park, Hyderabad, on Thursday, the Minister paid floral tributes and commended the bravery of forest staff who died confronting smugglers and illegal encroachers. She affirmed that their sacrifices will not go in vain and urged current staff to stay vigilant.

Surekha also announced annual monetary awards of ₹10,000 for outstanding frontline officers in each district for their contributions to forest initiatives. The government, she said, is committed to extending various forms of support to Forest Department employees.

Highlighting Telangana’s massive green drive, she noted that the Vana Mahotsavam initiative has planted over 307.48 crore saplings, making it the third-largest human effort globally for afforestation. Sapling centers are also being set up in every gram panchayat.

Chief Secretary Ramakrishna Rao emphasised the harsh conditions faced by forest personnel and called their work a service to humanity and nature. He stressed the need to uphold their values and commitment.

Principal Secretary Ahmad Nadeem noted that forests cover 24% of Telangana’s area and highlighted ongoing recruitment of 1,516 Forest Department posts.

DGP Dr. Jitender assured police support, especially in podu land issues, to enable fearless forest operations.

The event concluded with tributes and a call to rededicate efforts toward protecting forests and wildlife. It was attended by senior forest officials, district authorities, and staff from various departments.

AP Govt allocates Rs. 5 crore for Forest Martyrs’ Families

On the occasion of National Forest Martyrs’ Memorial Day, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Forest Minister Pawan Kalyan announced a significant welfare initiative for the families of forest martyrs. He revealed that the coalition government has fulfilled its promise by depositing ₹5 crore into the welfare fund dedicated to the dependents of forest officials who laid down their lives in the line of duty.