82 new recruits equipped with technical field training in Nurpur

A six-day special training camp organised by the Nurpur Forest Division concluded last evening, equipping 82 newly recruited Van Mitras — including 45 men and 37 women — with technical field training. These trained volunteers will now be deployed across all 82 forest beats in the division to support forest conservation and management efforts.

During the training, conducted by experts from the Forest Department, the Van Mitras enhanced their skills in forest conservation, plantation models, nursery development and practical techniques to combat forest fires. They also received instruction in community engagement, sustainable forest management practices and forest laws related to offenses.

In addition, the trainees were introduced to forest corporation work, including salvage marking of trees and resin extraction from khair wood. To familiarise them with wildlife management, sessions were also conducted at the Pong Wetland Wildlife Sanctuary.

Despite their important responsibilities, these Van Mitras will receive a modest monthly remuneration of just Rs 10,000.

Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Amit Sharma informed The Tribune that the training followed a structured module developed by experts from the Forest Training Institute in Sunder Nagar, Mandi district. He said the trained Van Mitras are being deployed in the following ranges of the Nurpur Forest Division: 19 in Nurpur, 16 in Rey, 20 in Indora, 13 in Jawali and 14 in Kotla. They will assist forest guards in managing the beats more effectively.

DFO Sharma emphasised the vital role these trained volunteers will play in forest conservation and sustainable management. He expressed confidence that their deployment would significantly strengthen the field operations of the Forest Department.

Himachal Tribune