The Odisha Krushak Mahasangh (OKM) submitted a slew of suggestion regarding protection of forest and environment to concerned Minister Bikram Keshari Arukh last week, informed OKM president Bibhudhendra Pratap Das. The OKM has cited that the percentage of rewards under the Odisha Rewards for Detection of Forest Offences Rules-2004 is very low. It demanded that the reward be given to informers as well as Government staff at a rate of 35 per cent and 15 per cent, respectively, of the stolen materials towards incentive.
The OKM also recommended that use of valuable timbers in private building be completely banned and persons using such wooden materials be made liable for disconnection of electricity supply, heavy fine and severe punishment.
As plantation schemes have failed due to rampant corruption, plantation and further follow up actions should be assigned to private agencies on tender basis by taking bank guarantee. And some specific species of trees should be planted by Government and private bodies for commercial purpose while the TT permit system for commercial tree cutting should be abolished. Regarding poaching of wild animals, the informers should be awarded with a cash prize of Rs10,000 to Rs50, 000 and a special court be established for quick disposal of cases relating to wildlife crimes.
An anti-poaching vigil for 24 hours should be made in all Wildlife Forest Divisions and Reserve Forests, the OKM further demanded.