In a major step toward strengthening forest governance and wildlife protection, the Forest Department of Manipur signed two key Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) on November 14. The agreements aim to modernize the State’s forest administration through advanced communication systems and enhanced coordination with aviation authorities. The signing ceremony took place at the Forest Headquarters in Sanjenthong, Imphal, in the presence of Anurag Bajpai, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Head of Forest Force, along with senior officials from BSNL, AAI, and top Forest Department officers. Under the MoU with BSNL, titled “Networking & Communication Infrastructure for Forest Revenue Stations of Manipur,” advanced networking solutions will be deployed across Divisional Headquarters, Range Offices, and Beat Offices. The initiative includes installation of Optical Fibre Cable networks, GPS-enabled devices for frontline staff, IP-based CCTV cameras, ANPR and trap cameras at strategic forest check posts, and drone units for aerial surveillance.
A Central Command & Control Centre (4Cs) will be established at the Forest Headquarters to ensure real-time monitoring, coordination, and reporting. The project is planned for phased implementation over the next three years. The agreement with AAI will establish a dedicated office at Imphal International Airport to facilitate coordination for environmental governance, wildlife protection, and regulatory enforcement. The initiative is expected to curb illegal trafficking of forest and wildlife products at the State’s main aviation hub, linking Manipur to other Indian states and South-East Asia.Speaking at the ceremony, PCCF Anurag Bajpai emphasised that the partnership with BSNL would improve operational efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness in field operations. “Reliable connectivity is crucial for monitoring forest produce, protecting wildlife, and enhancing revenue collection,” he said, describing the collaboration as a first-of-its-kind initiative in Manipur.
BSNL officials reaffirmed their commitment to providing secure and robust communication infrastructure to support digital transformation in forest administration. AAI representatives highlighted the importance of sustainable aviation practices and pledged full support to reinforce environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance.
