Forest guards trained, given sophisticated arms: DFO

This is part of programme to enhance vigilance in the forest to stop poaching of deer and tiger and pilferage of forest resources including timber, according to the Conservator of Forests.

Other steps are also being taken to check crimes in the Sundarbans.

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Thirty-three SLRs and 20 Chinese rifles have been given to guards in the Eastern Wing of Sundarban Forest Division (SFD). The Western Wing got 70 SLRs and 180 Chinese rifles to contain crimes.

DFO Shaikh Mizanur Rahman of Eastern Wing said there are 1077 forest guards and boatmen in four ranges in the eastern and western wings of the Sundarbans.

The Ministry of Forests has undertaken a plan to equip them with sophisticated arms. All outdated arms will be withdrawn in phases, he said. All the forest guards will be trained and given sophisticated firearms, he said.