Chief Minister Jayalalithaa on Thursday announced the formation of rapid action groups near forest areas to respond immediately during man-animal conflicts in the State. The groups will consist of well-trained personnel, who will also have the necessary equipment for such operations.
Making the announcement under Rule 110 in the Assembly, Ms. Jayalalithaa said that a total of Rs. 8.64 crore would be allocated for the groups to come up at Coimbatore, Krishnagiri, Ooty, Gudalur and Tirunelveli in the coming financial year.
“Even the National Tiger Conservation Authority has acknowledged the need for such groups,” she said.
Sandalwood trees
She also announced a scheme to grow sandalwood trees in reserve forests and on patta lands in Vellore, Salem, Erode, Dharmapuri and Tiruchi districts. It will not only create employment opportunities for tribals but also generate revenue for the government. This 10-year-scheme would cost Rs. 100 crore and this year Rs. 10 crore would be earmarked for it. The move would prevent tribal people migration.
The Chief Minister also informed the House that 25 continuous ambient air quality monitoring centres would be set up across the State to monitor air pollution.
Groups to come up at Coimbatore, Ooty, Krishnagiri, Gudalur and Tirunelveli
